Converted train carriage to become Derby special school's library

The former railway carriage is ready for a new chapter

Pupils at a Derby special school will keep their reading on track at their new library inside a converted train carriage.

Ivy House School in Littleover is set to begin work this month on the new facility.

Shaw Education Trust says the Ivy House Express will be "immersive and engaging" for students.

The school is in the process of removing a bike shed to make way for a 20m section of track and ballast.

The carriage, brought back to life after being retired from the railways by Burton-upon-Trent firm Riviera Trains, will then be craned in over half-term.

The inside will be converted into a library and learning space, while a platform will be constructed to make it accessible for the school's pupils, who have serious learning difficulties and complex health issues.

Work needs to take place to renovate the inside

Head teacher Ian Armstrong said: "We are constantly seeking innovative ways to enhance the learning experience for our students.

"The train carriage library will provide a unique and stimulating space that will capture our students' imaginations and inspire them to develop a love of reading.

"Additionally, it will provide a valuable cultural capital building experience, as many of our students have not had the opportunity to travel on a train due to their special educational needs and disabilities."

It is expected the train carriage will be ready for use by the start of the next academic year.

The train will be placed at the school by the end of this month