Youth Volunteers

'TrackForce' is our new Youth Volunteer team which for 2026 is open to 13 to 17 year-olds living in the North Devon area with sessions held every second Saturday in the month from April to October.

We meet on the platform at Woody Bay (next to the booking office) at 9:45am, this being timed to be convenient for anyone coming by bus from Lynton (9:00am departure arrives 9:23) and Barnstaple (8:45 railway station, 8:49 bus station, arrives Woody Bay 9:31). The full bus timetable including PDF download here - https://www.stagecoachbus.com/routes/south-west/310/barnstaple-lynmouth/XDCO310.O

Please bring wear strong shoes / boots (not lose or open) and warm clothes that won’t mind get dirty and similarly bring a warm coat as the weather can be changeable at Woody Bay. Parents / guardians are welcome to stay as we always need volunteer help at the railway. The cafe will be open or feel free to bring your own packed lunch.

This new initiative provides a stimulating and exciting environment for younger people designed to develop their skills, confidence and experience at Woody Bay station on glorious Exmoor.

The structured youth volunteer programme will help you:

• Build confidence, teamwork and social skills
• Learn practical and life skills
• Help develop future career potential
• Get a real sense of satisfaction from jobs well done
• Make new friends from a variety of backgrounds
• Progress to becoming a part of the senior volunteer team
• Contribute to the future success of one of Exmoor's most high-profile attractions.
• Progress to becoming a part of the senior volunteer team

Each session covers a key part of the railway's activities, from learning about and operating the the miniature railway right through to narrow gauge operations. Over the season our youth volunteers will be will be involved in the aspects of what keeps our world famous heritage railway in tip-top condition and how we deliver a first class customer experience. 

Parents and guardians, be rest assured, we have a safeguarding policy in place and all our team leaders are DBS checked.

Youth team members don't necessarily need have to have an interest in heritage steam railways. All that’s required is enthusiasm and an inquisitive mind to do something new and worthwhile as part of an enthusiastic group of young people. Plus, there’s a train ride included at the end of every session! So, come along and be amongst the first to take part in this great opportunity!

In 2027 we intend to widen TrackForce to greater Devon and beyond.