Eversholt Rail Engineering project

Just before the Christmas break, I was delighted to take part in a fully funded training programme alongside other primary teachers as part of our Rail Programme, which provides high-quality STEM-based professional development. Through completing the initial stage of the Primary Engineer training, we received a free kit containing all the tools and materials needed for 30 rail project builds—enough for 60 children to work in pairs.

This exciting cross-curricular programme gives pupils the opportunity to design, build and test their own vehicle models. Our Year 3 classes were the first to take part, and it was fantastic to see their enthusiasm and determination throughout the process as they developed their initial designs.

Building on this, Year 5 pupils went on to take part in the second phase of the project, which introduced a more complex design incorporating an electrical circuit to enable their vehicles to move. The project was structured across a series of lessons, beginning with the careful measuring and cutting of components to construct the chassis, followed by assembling the structure using clear, step-by-step instructions. Throughout, the children demonstrated excellent teamwork, resilience, and attention to detail.

The children have now successfully completed the full build process. They added wheels and pulleys, incorporated electrical circuits to power their motors, and designed and created the outer bodies of their locomotives using a range of materials. The finished products are a testament to their hard work, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

It has been wonderful to see all pupils develop a wide range of valuable skills, including teamwork, problem-solving, creativity, and resilience. The hands-on nature of the project has truly brought learning to life, while also encouraging children to ensure their designs meet specific criteria and design specifications.

A selection of pupils will attend a joint schools celebration event on 24th April 2026, where their work will be showcased alongside projects from other schools. We are very much looking forward to celebrating their achievements.

I would also like to extend a sincere thank you, on behalf of both myself and St Teresa’s, to Edd Blacoe. Not only did he support me throughout my training, but he also generously gave his time to work with the children. His expertise—particularly in his role as Principal Engineer at Beacon Rail—brought invaluable insight and inspiration to the project.

Mr Wanless