Shropshire teenager Oliver is turning his career aspirations into reality through his own dedication, and the opportunities and guidance provided at Derwen College’s Walford campus, near Shrewsbury. From honing his horticulture skills to stepping into the spotlight as a DJ, his journey highlights the impact of hard work and the right support.
Derwen College supports young adults with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), providing tailored opportunities to help them develop essential skills for work and independent living as part of their preparation for adulthood. Oliver’s story began in 2022 when he enrolled at Derwen College’s small day student campus in Walford, near Shrewsbury. There, he preferred the more intimate learning environment, and set himself a clear goal: to build towards a career in horticulture.
“I wanted to come to Derwen because it does gardening, and I wanted to learn how to use the machines,” he recalls. Initially nervous about not knowing anyone, Oliver quickly found his place. “It took me about a week to settle in. Once I got to know everyone, it was great.”
Over time, Oliver’s confidence and skills flourished. He became proficient in using garden machinery, including mowers, leaf blowers, and power washers. His talents were put to practical use through external work placements designed to prepare him for employment. He has now progressed onto the College’s work-based supported internship programme. He tends the grounds at Shrewsbury Crematorium twice a week, works at Whittington Castle, near Oswestry, and helps maintain land at Oswestry’s Cambrian Heritage Railways. He also works with the grounds team at Alderford Lake, in Whitchurch.
Oliver’s ambitions don’t stop at horticulture. During his time at College, a passion for DJ-ing has grown. Having performed at numerous college parties, Oliver’s skills caught the attention of event organisers at Alderford Lake’s popular Alderfest. As a result, he has secured an exciting opportunity to DJ at Alderfest 2025 in July, an absolute dream come true for him!
“I would like to do gardening, maybe have my own company, and do discos as well,” he says, envisioning a future that blends both his passions.
Beyond work training, Oliver is developing vital life skills to support him into adulthood. He is learning travel training, as well as cooking and independence skills. “I’m learning how to cook meals and keep things clean,” he says proudly.
His parents have seen a remarkable transformation. “Oliver has learnt how to use machinery safely; he now has his own petrol strimmer and lawnmower at home. He does our lawns and even helps some of the neighbours,” his mum shares.
They have noticed significant improvements in his maturity and social skills, during his time at College.
“He is turning into a young adult that we are very proud of. The future is looking so much better for Oliver!”
Oliver’s story illustrates why Derwen College is ‘a place of possibility’. Through bespoke timetables, hands-on learning and work placements, students like Oliver are equipped with the skills and confidence to build fulfilling futures. Whether tending gardens or spinning tracks at a festival, Oliver is proving that with the right support, dreams can become reality.
Find out more about how Derwen College supports 16-25 year olds with SEND to achieve their aspirations at www.derwen.ac.uk.
