STUDENTS FROM DERWEN College gain hands-on experience at Woodland Park Lodges’ treehouse retreat in Shropshire.

A luxury treehouse holiday park in Shropshire is helping young people with special educational needs gain valuable life and work skills through an inspiring new partnership. Woodland Park Lodges, a family-owned site nestled in 52 acres of countryside near the Welsh border, has teamed up with nearby Derwen College to offer weekly work placements for students.

The college, which specialises in further education for students with SEND (special educational needs and disabilities), sends learners accompanied by job coaches to take part in hands-on holiday park tasks.

Managing Director Victoria Thornley says the students bring real energy to the park: “They’re always enthusiastic to learn and contribute. Our guests regularly compliment the cleanliness of our lodges, which is a testament to the positive impact they’re making.”

Derwen College CEO Meryl Green praised the partnership, calling it “a vital step towards building confidence and future employment prospects.” Woodland Park Lodges also supports the Derwen Charity and has donated a luxury stay to its summer fundraising raffle.