Porterbrook has reported on its delivery of a Rail Project over the last year to schools near its Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre in Warwickshire.

The rolling stock company has been working with Primary Engineer, which provides engineering learning activities for schools.

Ten schools participated in the project, with 789 pupils taking part in activities designing and building trains with help from Porterbrook engineers.

Key Stage 1 pupils (aged 5-7) built a ‘shoe box train’. They learned how to design and decorate their own shoe boxes, and to use string to create brakes for their vehicles.

Key Stage 2 pupils (aged 7-11) built an electrically powered train. They made their own chassis and learned about electronic circuits, using paper clips as power switches.

At the end of the project, students showed off their trains at a celebration.

In an evaluation of the project, every teacher involved reported that it had increased their understanding of engineering and how they can make an impact on engineering career aspirations. All teachers also reported improved understanding of the diversity challenges in engineering.

Comments from school staff included:

• Katherine Bunt from Bishopton Primary: “The children were so engaged when the engineer came to visit!”
• Jane Kent from Salford Priors: “Pupils realised engineering is all about problem solving.”
• Tim Hussey from St Joseph’s Catholic Primary: “This project has been the most wonderful experience for our children!”