All aboard for accessibility
Children from the Royal School of the Deaf have teamed up with East Midlands Railway (EMR) to sign a digital book, to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the railway.
EMR has launched An Adventure Through Railway Past, a children’s book that celebrates this historic milestone. In addition to 14,000 hard copies being distributed to schools and available at railway stations, a digital copy will be offered for download.
As part of their commitment to accessibility, EMR released a Braille version of the book and included sign language in the digital edition, partnering with the Royal School for the Deaf on Ashbourne Road to bring the story to life in British Sign Language (BSL).
The book follows the journey of Miles, a young adventurer exploring EMR's network, visiting stations, heritage railway locations, and sites of historical significance.
Lynsey Buxton, head of employee communications at EMR and co-author of the book, said: “Initially, we approached Paul looking for an interpreter to sign the digital copy of the book. However, we soon realised that as it’s a children’s story, it would be much more meaningful if the children themselves were involved.
“It’s been an incredible learning journey for all of us, as sign language doesn’t always have a direct translation to English, but the kids truly poured their hearts into it and even added their own personal touches.
“The children were all amazing and worked incredibly hard. The final result is outstanding, and I’m excited for the upcoming release.”
Ten pupils from the school, ranging from year three to post 16, took part in signing the digital version of the book. One of the students, 13-year-old Rhyaan, said: “I was a bit nervous, and I made a couple of mistakes, but overall I felt good and confident.
“I’ve never been on a train before, but this experience has made me excited to try it.
“I’m looking forward to seeing myself in the video.”
A total of 6,000 copies of the book have already been distributed to over 70 schools, each accompanied by a bookmark with a 50% off voucher for travel on EMR services. Over the Easter holidays, another 8,000 copies will be handed out to children and their families at EMR stations and on trains.
Employees from EMR invited students and teachers from RSDD to attend a live reading of the story on World Book Day at Derby’s Museum of Making, as well as hosting visits at over 25 other schools across the Midlands, to bring the book to life.
Marie Clampitt, who teaches at the school and helped coordinate the project, said: “It’s been a lot of work organising this recording, but seeing the video come to life has been incredible.
“Everybody worked so hard and represented the school wonderfully, I can’t wait to see the final recording.
“It was such a great experience for the students that got involved and a great opportunity for them to show their excellent BSL skills.”
Paul Burrows, headteacher of the school, said: “This collaboration not only celebrates the creativity and talent of our students but also highlights the importance of accessibility in all aspects of life, including transport.”
“Working alongside EMR, we are excited to continue our shared mission of improving accessibility in train travel, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their needs, can travel with confidence and ease. It’s a fantastic step forward, and we look forward to what we can achieve together in the future.”