Harry's Way

Introduction

Harry’s Way is a personal travel training programme designed for young adults with additional needs in North Northamptonshire. The aim is to build confidence and develop the skills needed to travel independently—whether by bus, train, bicycle, or on foot.

The programme was inspired by Harry Chadwick, a former pupil of Isebrook Community School in Kettering. Harry loved the freedom of cycling but sadly passed away from cancer at the age of 19. His parents, David Chadwick and Jessica Pilkington, created this project with Brightwayz to honour his memory and bring joy to other young adults with additional needs in the local area.

Harry’s Way is organised by Brightwayz and funded by Harry’s family, along with contributions from East Midlands Railway. The programme is supported and championed by Tresham College, and is initially being offered to some Tresham students, with plans to extend to other local young adults with additional needs.

Aim

To support local young adults with additional needs in developing the skills and confidence required to travel more easily and independently in their daily lives.

Initial Objectives

• Engage with 45 local young adults with additional needs aged 16–25 in a comprehensive travel training programme.

• Equip them with essential travel skills, for example:

  • Using public transport (bus and train)

  • Provision of a refurbished bike (if required)

  • Confident and safe cycling training

  • Basic cycle maintenance training

  • Navigating local walking routes Pre-activity safety guidance

• Deliver group-based and one-to-one practical training sessions tailored to individual needs.

• Enable each young person to complete at least one of their everyday journeys independantly or with a friend, family member or guardian by the end of the programme.