Young people from Rotherham Opportunities College recently embarked on an inspiring ‘try the train’ trip to Cleethorpes.

Organised by the community rail team at South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) in partnership with the Railway Children and TransPennine Express, the event formed part of an early Community Rail Week celebration.

Designed specifically for young people with SEND, this fully supported experience gave participants the opportunity to step outside their everyday environments, build confidence, and develop key life skills through real-world travel. From navigating stations to travelling independently on the rail network, the young people were encouraged to explore, learn, and grow at their own pace in a safe, welcoming, and inclusive setting.

The day blended independence with creativity and structured learning. As well as enjoying the freedom of travelling to the coast, participants took part in interactive onboard activities, created their own personalised safeguarding toolkits, and joined engaging creative workshops delivered by TickArt. These experiences not only made the day memorable but also reinforced important skills around safety, communication, and self-expression.

Participants also gained invaluable insight into the rail industry, with opportunities to speak directly with rail professionals about their roles and career journeys. These conversations helped to spark curiosity, raise aspirations, and show that the rail sector offers a wide range of accessible and exciting career pathways.

Cathrine Ashworth, community rail officer for SYMCA, said: “This pilot project highlights how SYMCA is actively working with partners to break down barriers to travel, champion inclusion, and open up opportunities for young people across South Yorkshire.

“By using rail as a gateway, the programme is helping to build confidence, independence, and ambition – ensuring that truly, these are journeys for all.”

Chris Harrison, head of quality and curriculum at Rotherham Opportunities College, said: “Providing opportunities for students with special educational needs to access a range of transport options is an important step in preparing them for adulthood. Learning to travel by train opens up wider opportunities for education, employment and social experiences, while also helping students build confidence and independence within the community.

“This experience has been a fun learning opportunity whilst being so important and reassuring for our students to know that train stations are a safe supportive environment.”

SYMCA has previously collaborated with Community Rail Network members on a number of projects, including Bishop Line CRP and Northern’s Try the Train programme and working with the Penistone Line Partnership to install customer information screens in community spaces and other art projects at stations, including Barnsley Interchange and Chapeltown.

Learn more about SYMCA’s work in the community here.