Young people take the lead in Travel Training Day to build independence

Young people from Greenbank School have taken part in a hands-on Independent Travel Training Day, delivered in partnership with Cheshire West and Chester Council and D&G Buses.

The event’s aim was to promote the lifelong benefits of independent travel for pupils who receive council-funded travel assistance, helping them build confidence, community awareness, and essential life skills that support future social, educational and employment opportunities.

As part of the day, D&G provided a bus for practical training experience. Groups of pupils took a short, guided journey from Greenbank School to Winsford, which included walking to a bus stop, boarding safely and understanding what to expect when travelling independently.

Once in Winsford, pupils attended a bespoke session delivered by the Council’s Road Safety team, focusing on staying safe around roads, recognising hazards and making responsible travel choices.

Cllr Karen Shore, the Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Transport and Highways, said:

“Independent Travel Training is a vital service that empowers eligible young people, giving them greater freedom and long-term opportunities. We’re delighted to work with Greenbank School and D&G Buses to support this important initiative.”

Dan Flanagan, Area Manager for Cheshire at D&G Bus said:

“I am delighted to have been able to supply a bus and to take part in the practical training experience at the Travel Training Day and appreciate how learning to travel independently is an important step towards greater freedom and self-confidence for young people with additional needs.

“It gives young people more control and choice in their everyday lives along with helping young people to build essential life skills and confidence to take part in new experiences.”

Charlene Brown, Head of Care for Greenbank School said:

“We are delighted to be working with the Cheshire West and Chester Independent Travel Team, to promote this wonderful service.  The young people at Greenbank are really looking forward to learning these new skills.

“During their time at Greenbank our ambition is to prepare all our young people for adult life. We want to equip them with all the skills they will need for the future, to ensure they have independent, social and personal skills for them to navigate the world around them. We believe that travel training is a great way to help our young people become Independent and confident with in their own local community.”

This event reflects a commitment to support children, young people and adults with SEND to develop independence in safe, structured ways.

D&G have provided the bus for the Independent Travel Training Day, free of charge