Young voices lead the way on accessibility at Ysgol Bryn Alyn. Disability Pride!

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There is a huge accessibility project happening in Wrexham, chaired by the author Samantha Maxwell. Awareness of the work is growing in the area and throughout Wales.

Last week I attended a presentation from pupils at Ysgol Bryn Alyn, Gwersyllt, Wrexham. The pupils have only recently got involved in the work, but they have already contributed many ideas and recommendations to help shape the guide.

As part of their work, they have been exploring accessibility in their school environment. They have tried a range of practical activities designed to help them better understand the barriers disabled people can face in everyday life.

The pupils shared the results of an accessibility walkabout around their school, and members of the Accessibility Wrexham group were invited to hear the outcomes in a presentation.

The results highlighted the positive features already in place and the changes that could help make the site more inclusive for everyone.

The presentation was a fantastic opportunity to hear directly from young people about what accessibility means in everyday school life. The pupils showed confidence, insight and a strong understanding of why inclusive spaces matter.

Their audit recognised several examples of good practice, including step-free access at the main entrance, wide corridors, some wheelchair-accessible classrooms, lifts in parts of the school, quiet spaces, staff training, mental health support and Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans.

They also identified areas where improvements could make a real difference, such as steep ramps, uneven pathways, heavy or narrow doors, inaccessible areas, limited accessible outdoor seating, unclear signage, a lack of Easy Read information and the absence of a Changing Places toilet.

The pupils made thoughtful recommendations, including improving physical access, repairing the chair lift, widening doorways, improving crossings and pedestrian routes, introducing clearer signage and Easy Read information, creating more low-sensory spaces and continuing regular accessibility reviews.

As part of the project, pupils also spoke with the Head Caretaker about current and planned improvements, including a new lift in the Science Block, safer stage access and better accessibility across specialist teaching spaces.

A disabled member of staff also shared valuable feedback, noting positive changes while highlighting the importance of holding meetings and events in accessible locations, addressing misuse of disabled parking spaces and continuing to review older parts of the school site.

The pupils ended their presentation with a powerful awareness message: “That is not disability friendly! Please be more aware next time. We are trying to make the school more accessible.”

The presentation was a wonderful reminder of the importance of listening to young people’s voices. Their honesty, confidence and practical ideas show how pupils can play an important role in shaping more accessible, welcoming and inclusive communities.