In July, 16 pupils and 8 support staff from Horsham QE2 SEN school travelled to London for a theatre trip to see Wicked, the musical. As most of the people travelling are involved in the active station partnership at Horsham station, SCRP Line Officer Rowena Tyler and GTR Conductor Manager Debbie Morris suggested using the journey up to London Victoria as a travel training experience, which could then be eligible for travel to be covered by GTR.
This suggestion was welcomed by all involved, GTR CSR department, the station manager and staff at Horsham, and of course the school.
Here’s an excerpt from the feedback received, after the event:
From support staff:
“Rowena and Debbie supported our students by coaching them. They explained how to purchase a ticket, showed them where to find information relating to travel, how check the timings of the trains and which platform they needed to go to. They also allowed them to find that platform independently.
Rowena, Debbie and Mike answered numerous questions and made the whole experience a joy!”
“All the interaction with staff was positive from ticket staff, station staff and onboard staff – each and every employee were kind, helpful and helped to give our students an experience that they haven’t stopped talking about!”
From some of the students:
I had the best day ever!
I was worried about catching a train, but Rowena and Debbie explained it well. I think I could do it again without getting stressed.
Next time I go to the station with my dad, I will show him what to do!
Southern Rail is amazing.
I liked it because I learnt something new.
Please can we do it all again?
“This is what we should be learning – real life stuff.”
