There are many ways to get involved with our, now your, world famous railway – either through a group project, as part of your education or qualifications or specifically for one or more of our railway’s departments. Work can be incredibly diverse; it’s not all about grease and grubby hands.
Every year, in early August, the FR runs a week to give young volunteers, aged between 14 and 16, a taste of the volunteers’ life. There are usually about 40 places for young volunteers, who live in the railway’s hostels and other, local, accomodation.
The young persons are supported by adult volunteers, often more than there are young volunteers, who act as House Parents and as Project Leaders. The adults usually have plenty of experience of the FR, including former participants in this annual event, and this helps to communicate the special nature of the railway to their charges.
Further details for YVTW2024 may be obtained from Tricia Doyle (tdoyle@ffwhr.com) or the YVTW Administrator, Jo Vincent (jvincent@ffwhr.com).
Every year, in early August, the FR runs a week to give young volunteers, aged between 14 and 16, a taste of the volunteers’ life. There are usually about 40 places for young volunteers, who live in the railway’s hostels and other, local, accomodation.
The young persons are supported by adult volunteers, often more than there are young volunteers, who act as House Parents and as Project Leaders. The adults usually have plenty of experience of the FR, including former participants in this annual event, and this helps to communicate the special nature of the railway to their charges.
What was formerly a week of doing lots of useful jobs for the railway and having a good time afterwards has recently been developed. Since 2007 the ‘jobs’ have become ‘projects’ designed to offer the youngsters educational opportunities. Their participation in the week’s activities results in the development of personal lifetime skills, self confidence, enhanced job prospects and recognised national qualifications. In order to achieve the national recognition, the railway has become an accredited training centre under the auspices of the Open College Network.
Everyone still has a good time afterwards!
Training projects include a wide variety of jobs. In 2009 they included the building of a replica carriage for the FR Heritage Group, building a storage shed in concrete blocks, painting (there is always painting!), carriage cleaning at Harbour Station each morning, carpentry, gardening and many others.
Social events are organised on most evenings during the week, including a party on the beach at Morfa Bychan and an evening works train to Tan-y-bwlch, the FR’s main station in the mountains, to tidy up and have a meal.
Many volunteers come back year after year and many then go on to volunteer for the railway in all sorts of roles. The train you ride when you visit the FR could very well have a former Young Volunteer as Guard, Buffet Steward, Fireman and even Engine Driver!
Sometimes they are all former young volunteers, an achievement we are very proud of!
The Society’s work is only possible through the generous donations and contributions made by members and supporters.
Donating is easy and can be a general contribution to the society’s work or towards specific project like our Welsh Pony Appeal.
Find out how to donate »