Scropton Riding for the Disabled

Horses are amazing animals and provide lots of opportunities to make real and lasting differences to the lives of adults and children with additional needs.   

Just down the road at Scropton Riding for the Disabled, horses and activities offer opportunities to develop a variety of life skills, improve well-being and build abilities - all whilst having fun.  They aim to help a range of disabilities; physical, learning, sensory, multiple and profound, and are extending their reach to those with mental health problems.

Apprentices designed, built and fitted 3 sets of lightweight, robust doors for their indoor arena along with new pole storage solutions for their outdoor arena allowing disabled people safe and secure access.  

Glynis Dalley, Trustee for Scropton, said

We are hugely grateful to the fantastic team of apprentices who worked incredibly hard, even finding time to help with drain clearance and weed control. They were a pleasure to have at the centre and we enjoyed sharing with them a little bit of what makes time with horses so special for our participants. We were sad to see them go at the end of the week but absolutely delighted with all they had achieved.  It’s a brilliant opportunity for both the apprentices and small local charities like us.

Find out more about Scropton Riding for the Disabled here.

Fountains Primary School

Fountains Primary School is a foundation special school based just down the road in Stretton.  They provide education and support for children aged 2 to 11 years with a variety of needs and disabilities (SEND) that can affect how they learn or access the world around them.

Apprentices extended the sensory pathway and built a sensory tunnel using a pergola.  Sensory products were also installed, including wind chimes and music boards, whilst flower beds were repainted and a tyre pathway and stepping stones added.

Nicole Price, Executive Headteacher at Fountains said.

On behalf of everyone, we would like to extend our thanks for the thoughtfully designed area that the Toyota apprentices created for pupils. This has already made a significant difference in the daily experiences of children who attend Fountains and provides them with a safe, engaging space that supports sensory development, encourages movement and brings joy to their routines. Your commitment to our community reflects a deep understanding of inclusion, compassion and social responsibility. We are truly grateful for this partnership and the lasting impact you’ve made to the lives of our pupils.

Find out more about Fountains Primary School here.

North East Wales Carers Information Service (NEWCIS)

NEWCIS provide access to information and guidance for carers of all ages and backgrounds in North East Wales.  Services include financial support, respite, counselling, hospital support and much more.

Their walled garden sits at the back of their new carer’s centre where they were keen to establish a focal hub for carers and volunteers. Bring in the Toyota apprentices! Now, raised beds allow carers to tend and grow flowers, vegetables and fruits, producing sustainable food boxes to be delivered to carers in the community. It also enables them to hold workshops where they can learn to cook and prepare the produce they have nurtured.   In addition, a new pergola with pots for climbing plants, a wooden bench and 4 wooden planters, one with a fitted bench, and not forgetting the cushions provide a space where carers can sit, reflect and chat.

Claire Sullivan, Chief Executive Officer, NEWCIS said,

Your efforts in organising such an engaging and impactful project has been truly appreciated. The hands-on learning, expert guidance, and the professionalism demonstrated throughout the week has left a lasting impression on all who utilise the building. It was evident that your team is deeply dedicated to nurturing the next generation of skilled professionals and are a credit to your company”.

Find out more about NEWCIS here.

YMCA

Derby YMCA, an independent Christian charity, are committed to helping young people from all backgrounds and all walks of life. Apprentices pulled out the stops to re-energise the communal area of their allotment, delivering a quiet and secluded area for all YMCA residents.

Matt Taylor, Youth & Community Manager, Derby YMCA said

The group have been so proactive. Moving material in mud and rain, never giving up, shovelling tonnes of soil, and having a ‘can do’ attitude. I can't thank them enough for a week of true grit and determination.”

Spirit and Soul

Spirit and Soul offer nature based, animal assisted and equine facilitated learning opportunities to promote positive mental wellbeing.  Apprentices worked hard to improve access to the therapy building, whilst creating calming seating and storage areas.

Sarah, Founder, Spirit & Soul said

The team delivered everything we needed and more. The standard of work was incredible, they organised and handled everything. We are really pleased with the outcome.”

Royal School for the Deaf, Derby

Just up the road, the Royal School for the Deaf cater for approximately 120 children.  A fantastic make-over transformed a concrete space into a painted chess floor and football pitch Sensory items, planters and beautifully painted benches also added colour to a once bland, unused space.

Helen Shepherd, Head Teacher, Royal School for the Deaf said:

We have been thrilled by the enthusiasm and care of the apprentices who tackled each challenge with a smile. It is wonderful to see the children discovering something new each day in their new playground.