The Petty Pool Trust's mission is to empower and support young people, including those with learning disabilities and difficulties, to discover a world of opportunity and possibility through its vocational college, outdoor centre and community service.

Its spectacular woodland surroundings in Sandiway, near Northwich, are in sharp contrast to its humble beginnings in 1981 when it was based in a portable office in a car park.

The organisation moved to Sandiway in 1999. In spite of the dramatic change, Petty Pool's founding principle did not alter: to support young people with learning disabilities into employment.

It also promotes their personal development through the provision of challenging activities. The trust works with 121 college learners as well as over 4,000 young people and visiting groups at the outdoor centre.

Its secluded rural setting allows learners who may not benefit from a larger mainstream college setting to study in a small and supportive environment with an emphasis on kinaesthetic learning, practical delivery and competence-based qualifications.

Activities on offer at the outdoor centre include canoeing, abseiling, problem-solving, and archery. Vocational skills taught at the college include horticulture, animal care, IT, and hospitality and catering. Supported internships are provided.