Pupils are learning how to be independent with the help of a custom-made £35,000 mock street system.

The ambitious interactive set creates a realistic street scene, with an authentic-looking road surface and markings, signs, working traffic lights, pedestrian crossings, and a level crossing, and even includes shop panels, petrol pumps and bus stops.

It is the only one of its kind in the north of England and the first ever portable version in the UK.

The custom built simulation, at Chellow Heights Special School, Bingley Road, Bradford, was funded by £35,000 from the Wooden Spoon children’s charity.

It was commissioned to very specific requirements from leading sensory equipment specialist, Sensory Technology.

Head teacher Sue Haithwaite said: “Our pupils have a wide array of difficulties, from communications and interaction issues to profound physical disabilities, but we reject the idea that they should be sheltered from the world.

“With this in mind, we equip them with the expertise and knowledge they require to navigate it safely and have created a street scene where they can acquire crucial life skills – such as road safety for pedestrians and cyclists – and which inspires independence.

“The experience offers total immersion in a realistic setting that is also a safe environment, allowing pupils to learn in their own time. It complements our ongoing drive to provide our children with a range of specially adapted bikes that suits their individual needs, for mobility, confidence and fitness.”

The school approached Wooden Spoon to fund the project because of their shared belief that all children deserve the chance to enjoy happy, fulfilled lives, regardless of the challenges they face.

The school’s core philosophy is that students should be enabled to achieve their full potential and maximise life chances.

On Thursday The Wooden Spoon Interactive Road was officially unveiled by the Deputy Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Joanne Dodds, at a party with the chairman of the Yorkshire Regional Committee of Wooden Spoon, Stuart Watson, students and parents.