Students from The Mendip School are gaining hands-on work experience at The Bishop's Palace and Gardens in Wells, thanks to an ongoing partnership that benefits both The Palace Trust and the young people involved.

The Mendip School, based in Shepton Mallet, is a school for pupils aged 4 to 19 with a primary diagnosis of autism (ASD) and speech language and communication needs.

The Bishop's Palace's Community Engagement programme aims to give a warm welcome to everyone and play a part in making Wells and the surrounding area a wonderful place to live and visit.

As part of this initiative, every Thursday students from the school take on a variety of roles at the Palace, from cleaning the brass commemorative plaques; to keeping the grounds tidy; to more public-facing tasks such as welcoming visitors to the Palace and checking tickets at the Lodge.

The experience helps them build confidence, develop practical skills, and prepare for future employment, all while making a meaningful contribution to the historic site.

Staff at the Palace have praised the students' enthusiasm and dedication, noting the positive impact their work has on maintaining The Bishop's Palace's welcoming atmosphere.

The collaboration not only provides valuable opportunities for the students but also strengthens the connection between The Palace Trust, the school and the wider community. 

Siobhan Goodwin, Community Engagement Manager at The Bishop's Palace, says 'As well as volunteering with us, the students have lessons in our learning room once a week with their teaching staff from school. It has been so rewarding to see them grow in confidence over the last six months. We would like to thank the students and the wonderful staff from The Mendip School who support them in their volunteering'.