Scottish primary schools are getting onboard with Network Rail this year in a bid to inspire a future generation of railway innovators.
Network Rail is partnering with four schools to help deliver a year’s worth of investment, lessons and workshops centred around key priorities for the railway including safety, career opportunities, and active travel. The schools are:
- St Anne’s Primary School, Glasgow
- Camdean Primary School, Rosyth
- Goodlyburn Primary School, Perth
- Blacklands Primary School, Kilwinning
It follows the successful trial run of the programme in 2024. The schools previously involved received more than 100 refurbished bikes and safety equipment, as well as new or upgraded bike storage. Safe spaces for learning and play were also created outside with playgrounds revamped – made possible by Network Rail staff and community members who volunteered more than 2,800 hours of work.
A key focus of the partnerships is delivering STEM activities to encourage children to learn more about technology and engineering. These included using virtual reality to experience what it’s like working on a construction site, as well as learning how bridges are built.
Innis Keith, health, safety and environment director at Network Rail, said: “We’re not just in the business of building railways, we’re working in the community to help build futures.
“By partnering with schools, we can instil important safety habits in children early, while also hopefully inspiring the next generation of rail workers.
“We want everyone to feel proud of Scotland’s railway and the positive impact it has on our communities. Partnering with schools is just one way we achieve this, and I’m excited to see the progress we’ll make together with this next group of pupils.”
Letham Primary in Perth was one of the schools to benefit from the partnership in 2024. Jo White, head teacher, added: “We were delighted to work in partnership with Network Rail who kindly gave up their time and resources to improve our outdoor spaces.
“The partnership benefitted our children in so many ways; increased knowledge about rail safety, having their voice heard in planned developments and being able to engage and enjoy a range of outdoor spaces for learning and play.”
The initiative is also supported by Network Rail partner organisations including Story Contracting, Amco Giffen and QTS.