Providing training and experience for young people with complex disabilities for future independence

Destination Pond Meadow is a parent and staff fundraising group supporting Pond Meadow School in Guildford, which educates 170 pupils aged two to 19 with severe, profound and multiple disabilities.

Our Trustees donated £5,000 towards an equipped street van where pupils will prepare and serve drinks and snacks, helping them develop independence, practical skills and experience that support future education, training and employment opportunities.

The van will also support activities beyond the school. Plans include taking it to other schools, children’s sports matches and local events, including farmers’ markets. The project will link with local further education opportunities and other catering work experience placements.

“This is fantastic news and it was an incredibly quick decision. We are delighted to have this support for a project that will provide valuable opportunities for our pupils” – Nicola Rutherford, Project Fundraiser

More about Destination Pond Meadow

Pond Meadow School supports 170 pupils aged from two to 19, all of whom have severe, profound and multiple disabilities. More than 70% of pupils also have autism, while some have visual or hearing impairments, physical disabilities and additional medical needs.

Destination Pond Meadow focuses on projects that help pupils develop skills and opportunities for the future. In 2023, the group raised more than £116,000 to transform an old and obsolete food technology room into an adapted training kitchen for pupils.

There’s more about their work here