This much-needed vehicle will provide invaluable transport opportunities for children with complex educational needs, enabling them to explore the wider community and develop essential life skills.

Oakwood School, which caters for children aged 3-14 with a range of complex educational needs, continues to grow, with student numbers expected to rise from 153 to 200 in the coming years. This Sunshine Coach will play a vital role in helping children and young people gain independence and take part in enriching activities beyond the classroom. 

The special handover event was attended by supporters and sponsors, including Daz Simms BEM and Derek Cleverdon, both of whom have been instrumental in raising funds for Variety’s Sunshine Coach programme. 

Daz Simms BEM expressed his pride in this achievement:

“I presented our third Sunshine Coach minibus to Oakwood School, Walsall, West Midlands which will help hundreds of children. I performed some songs for the children, they all joined in – singing, dancing, signing. We did a conga, musical statues and had great fun.

The children then performed three songs for me, which made my eyes weep, and presented me with a thank you card. I can’t put into words the feeling of handing over the Coach to all the children. The Coach was also presented in recognition of the long-time work of Pauline and Derek Cleverdon. Thank you to everyone who has helped in any way.”

The Trustees of The Rowlands Trust shared their excitement in supporting Oakwood School:

“This year, the Trustees of The Rowlands Trust are delighted to support Oakwood School in Walsall by providing a much-needed 14-seater Variety Sunshine Coach. The Sunshine Coach will support the children and young people at Oakwood School to enjoy life-changing experiences and activities in their local community.

By providing unforgettable opportunities, the Sunshine Coach will support disadvantaged and disabled children who attend Oakwood for many years to come. It is with great pleasure that we can now officially recognise the Variety Sunshine Coach and its life-changing impact across the school community in this way. We look forward to hearing about the exciting opportunities that this Sunshine Coach will provide.”