Pupils in their final year at Dhoon School recently embarked on an educational visit to Shropshire in the UK. The group of pupils included eleven year-old James Barr, a boy with muscular dystrophy, and who must use a wheelchair at all times. James’ use of a wheelchair meant that the school had to plan the visit very carefully to ensure that James could be included in as much as possible and that his sophisticated multi-terrain wheelchair, which is larger than most manual and standard powerchairs, could be accommodated.
Mr Max Kelly, Headteacher of Dhoon School commented
'obviously transport and choice of venue were key aspects to arrange – Dhoon School prides itself on making sure that all of its pupils are included in all that we do, and we were delighted to find a coach company with a suitable lift for James’ chair and a venue that could arrange for James to take part in a fantastic variety of activities.'
The school travelled to Manor Adventure, an outdoor activity centre just outside of Ludlow. Disabled accommodation complete with a wet room was available for James, but was not separate from his friends and peers. The Centre organised for James to take part in the full range of activities including a hill climb and canoeing.
The Department of Education and Children’s Chief Executive, Professor Ronald Barr, who accompanied the trip, said
'it was wonderful to see the many things that James was able to do. In particular, climbing the Shropshire Hills and the Long Mynd is something none of us will ever forget and I am sure it was the first time a wheelchair had made such a climb. So a first for Dhoon School and the Isle of Man!'
All of the other pupils on the trip had a great time too, and were presented with certificates of achievement upon their return to school.
The Department of Education and Children thanked the school, acknowledging their
'excellent work in putting together such a great school trip.'
Pictured are the pupils of Dhoon School on top of the Long Mynd in the Shropshire Hills, and a picture of James on top of the Long Mynd with Alison Barr and Ronald Barr, his parents.
Contacts for additional/ further information
Max Kelly (Headteacher, Dhoon School) +44 1624 861227
