We are incredibly proud to share the story of student George, whose journey to independence has been remarkable. Not so long ago, George wouldn’t leave the house on his own. Now, he confidently travels between home and college by train and bus – something his family once thought impossible.
George’s transformation began in his first year, when he started travel training with encouragement from staff and his family. He began by learning to walk safely to the local village, and after passing his walking assessment, set himself a bigger challenge: making the 30–minute train journey between Gobowen and Chester on his own. This would give him the freedom to go home for weekends and holidays whenever he wanted.
Step by step, during travel training sessions, George built up the skills he needed. He learned how to use his bank card to buy tickets, spot key landmarks and platform signs, listen to announcements, read timetables, and know exactly when to get on and off the train. He even practised what to do if things went wrong – how to handle delays, changes, and how to ask for help from staff or other passengers.
As George’s confidence grew, the support he received was gradually reduced. After successfully completing his final travel assessment, he began travelling independently, always carrying a fully charged mobile phone and an emergency contact card to ensure his safety.
But George didn’t stop there. Encouraged by his success on the train, he worked with his family to master the local bus routes. Now, he confidently takes the bus to Chester to meet friends, socialise, and even lets himself back into his home with his own key. He’s also proud to take the bus to the gym on his own, keeping fit and healthy.
George’s progress has been extraordinary – not just in travel, but in his time management, communication, and self-confidence, both at College and at home.
“I’m really confident taking the train and bus now,” George says. “The most difficult part is buying the train ticket from the ticket office, but they’re really friendly and helpful. If there are any problems, I have my phone and know to call College or my Mum. I am very proud that I can get to the gym on my own and keep fit and healthy.”
His mother, Annette, admits she never thought this would be possible. “Before coming here, George would not leave our house unaccompanied. When I was told the goal for George was to be able to get home independently by train by June 2026, I never thought this could happen. But he’s doing it already – it’s amazing!”
