BG becomes a holiday destination for youngsters with learning disabilities

BG’s new boarding house has become a holiday destination for young people with learning disabilities in partnership with Green Frog Holidays.

The School hosted and helped to fund an inaugural week‑long residential Lionheart Holiday for 20 young holidaymakers in its state-of-the-art Earle House, which celebrates its first anniversary this month.

Set within 90 acres of grounds and sporting facilities, the children are supported by volunteers who provide one‑to‑one, 24‑hour care throughout the week.

A total of 58 volunteers, including BG staff and parents, 20 students and alumni from nearby Rugby School, and a team of experienced professionals, supported the holiday. Each Green Frog holiday costs around £30,000 plus accommodation and catering to deliver, covering resources, trips, specialist equipment, training, compliance and many other aspects.

The BG community raised more than £10,000 towards these costs through summer fairs, an auction and a community quiz. In addition, Earle House and BG’s facilities have been provided free of charge, catering has been gifted by Lodestone House, and Rugby School supplied its fleet of new minibuses alongside BG’s Lion minibuses. Days out included Twin Lakes, Wicksteed Park, Curve Theatre and Lamport Hall.

Green Frog Holidays describes its work as having a profound impact on three groups: Holidaymakers, many of whom are spending time away from home for the first time, enjoying a fun-filled week with peers in a safe and supportive setting; Families, who benefit from a rare week of respite and the confidence that comes from a consistent, high‑quality holiday year after year; and Volunteers, who often leave with a transformed understanding of disability, new friendships and experiences, and in many cases a shift in future career or life choices.

Head of Bilton Grange, Gareth Jones, said he was delighted that BG and Rugby School were able to support Green Frog by hosting the first Lionheart Holiday.

“The charity’s work is genuinely life-changing, not only for the holidaymakers it supports, but also for the volunteers who gain invaluable experience and perspective through their involvement. Just as importantly, the holiday offers families valuable respite from their day-to day caring responsibilities. In every respect, this initiative reflects the very best of community, kindness and service, and we are proud that Bilton Grange can play a part in making it possible.”

Chair of Trustees for Green Frog Holidays, Ed Barker, added: “We are extremely grateful for the partnership with Bilton Grange, Rugby School and the local community. Our work is only possible through host partners who provide outstanding facilities, generous resources, flexibility and the enthusiasm of the young volunteers who choose to give a week of their time and energy. We look forward to building this partnership in the years ahead and enhancing many more lives in the process.”

Pictured: Chair of Trustees for Green Frog Holidays, Ed Barker (left) with Head of Bilton Grange, Gareth Jones and holidaymakers Dexter and Hattie outside Earle House