RAF Shawbury unit make student's dream project come true
When a pupil wrote to the station commander at RAF Shawbury asking for help to build a sensory walk, the unit were more than happy to help.
Josh Carr, from Access School in Wem, asked for a hand on his special project to transform a field into a sensory path that students could explore, learn and have an adventure.
The team in the Defence Helicopter Flying School came to his aid and supplied eight trainees who fitted Josh's request for "strong volunteers".
Josh, a year 11 pupil with an interest in the outdoors, came up with with the idea to benefit all the pupils and staff at the school.
He said: "I thought the sensory and science field would be a really good idea for Access School. It will allow young people to reflect on their anxieties and reduce stress in the school environment, while in a peaceful place.
"I have really enjoyed seeing my plans come to life with the help of the school staff and the amazing RAF and Navy. It has been an enjoyable project that I am excited about seeing develop further and one I will never forget."
Access School is a therapeutic school for pupils who require a bespoke education for children with social, emotional and mental health difficulties.
It took the team a week to complete the work which was made possible by donations from across the county.
Head teacher Sarah Earing said: "Josh has worked so hard on this project and the creativity he has shown is really paying off. It took a huge amount of confidence and commitment to contact so many people for support.
"We are all totally overwhelmed by the support and donations that have been made. The RAF and Navy trainees have been an absolute joy to have on site and have worked tirelessly to ensure that all of the ground work is complete ready for us to get really creative.
"All of the fabulous staff and pupils organised and led by Tracey Lewis and Laura Watton have had a blast digging trenches and helping out throughout the week."
