The team of public service students were taught how to lay ballast and over the course of two days completed a 75m track section of the narrow-gauge railway.
Level 3 student Jack Rixon was one of those who spent five days helping out at the site.
The 18-year-old said: “It gave us teamwork and building skills and I also developed my communication skills. If you’re interested in old and vintage things like steam engines, it’s a nice place to go.”
The Level 2 and Level 3 students are completing the programme in hopes of starting a successful career in the armed forces, police, ambulance or fire and rescue service.
They were led by public services tutor Dave Allen, who added: “The work placement was a great opportunity for our students to develop their employability skills. The students were given tasks achieve, either individually or as part of a team which allowed them to work on their team building and leadership skills. The placement was also designed to let the students experience the nature of a working environment, being punctual and arranging their own transport. They could also look back and say ‘I did that’, and they did a really great job.”
The students also helped clear the ground around the base of the steam-powered Tidman Galloping Horses.
Simon Wildguest, Museum Manager, said Hollycombe was grateful for their help, adding: “After only two days, and lots of physical exertion, a very neatly laid section was finished off. The students have all been offered the chance to come back as a thank you for all their hard work to experience the narrow-gauge railway once Hollycombe reopens for the season in Easter.”
Date 15/03/2018