Park placements create development opportunities

National Star at Heart of Worcestershire College creates opportunities for students like Tom to be active citizens in the local community.

Since joining National Star, Tom has excelled with his personal development, including working with peers and increasing independence within daily living tasks. Tom has targets focused on accessing the community, including road safety, navigating shops and volunteering.

Tom volunteers every other week with the Fort Royal Park Environmental Rangers, who look after a park in Worcester. He is involved in a range of activities, including litter picking, building bug hotels and making pinecone bird feeders.

Karen O’Callaghan, from the ranger group, said: ‘It’s a joy to have Tom and his support staff, Ella Maxwell, at the park. Our local residents are very impressed and appreciative of Tom’s contribution, which has been mentioned at residents’ meetings. The council’s green space team are aware of and appreciates Tom’s work too.’

When asked to identify what he likes about college, Tom communicated he likes maths, sensory stories, community access and signed ‘yes’ with a smile when asked if he likes going to Fort Royal Park.

Tom is currently working with the staff at college exploring further ways he can support the park and the team at Fort Royal Park Environmental Rangers.

Charlotte Maund-Ruff, National Star Senior Tutor, said: ‘Tom has made excellent progress. Over the past year, he has successfully navigated some significant transitions, including moving into supported living.’

Sheryl Gayle, Curriculum Manager in Worcester, said: ‘We are all incredibly proud of Tom and delighted to see how much he enjoys volunteering.’