Students and their families joined trustees, supporters and distinguished guests, including the High Sheriff of Norfolk, Jo Pearson, to celebrate the achievements of the inaugural cohort at Open Road Thetford.
Twelve IMI Level 1 Awards in Motor Vehicle Maintenance were presented, alongside several 100% attendance awards and two special awards.
Open Road was established in King’s Lynn in 2009 to help keep young people engaged in education. Motor vehicles were chosen as the initial focus because, as Founding Trustee and Chair Terry Smith put it: “Who doesn’t like cars?” Students gain hands-on experience working on modern vehicles provided annually by Copart, developing practical knowledge and transferable skills that can open doors to a range of future opportunities. As cars become increasingly advanced, the industry also offers valuable opportunities to develop skills in mathematics and science.
Open Road Thetford, based on the Shadwell Estate, opened in January 2026. The new site has expanded this approach to include construction industry skills and industry-recognised qualifications. Alongside gaining formal qualifications, students develop essential life skills, learning the importance of punctuality, commitment and seeing things through.
Students attend the programme from senior schools across Breckland and the surrounding area. Open Road Thetford is supported by a range of local businesses, including Warren, Simon Long Removals, Lovewell Blake, MCP Law, West Brothers, Britannia Health & Safety, Landmark UK and Lignacite. The charity also receives support from Norfolk Community Foundation, Breckland Council and Norfolk County Council.
Addressing all of the students, Jo Pearson congratulated them on their achievements and thanked everyone who had helped establish Open Road Thetford, recognising the collective effort behind the programme and its commitment to supporting young people in the local community.
For more information about Open Road Thetford, scan the QR code, visit openroadtraining.co.uk or call 01842 683347.
