The Platform Rail Education Scheme recently led five unforgettable trips for groups of young people to visit ‘Inspiration’, the Railway 200 exhibition train, at the West Somerset Railway.
Throughout the week of 24-29 November, 157 students from Polden Bower, Bridgwater College Academy, Winterstoke Hundred and Priory Community School – including 19 young people using the train for the very first time – travelled on Great Western Railway services to Taunton Station, then rode on the shuttle to the West Somerset Railway where they had the chance to step aboard the Railway 200 exhibition train.
The students explored Inspiration’s three carriages, where they learned about the rich history of the railway and its role in shaping communities. They had the chance to practise their engineering skills in the Wonderlab and discover the wide range of future career possibilities across rail, engaging with hands-on activities that sparked the young people’s curiosity and creativity.
On Thursday and Friday, the experience was further enriched by conservation workshops led by West Somerset Railway education staff, where students learned about the protection of species along the railway and the importance of safeguarding the natural environment.
In keeping with their World War II studies and the railway heritage theme, the pupils from Bridgwater College Academy dressed as evacuees, adding a powerful historical dimension to their experience, which featured on BBC Point West News.
Sophie Lounds, learning development officer with Platform, said: “We’re so pleased to have played our part in engaging young people with the Inspiration train, bringing history to life, inspiring future engineers and highlighting the importance of conservation. This was a week of learning, fun and discovery that the students will remember for years to come.”
Jaden, a Year 8 student, said: “I really liked the sand in the Inspiration train. It was a very fun experience.”
Sienna, a Year 9 student, said: “The best part was the Inspiration train. You got to learn loads of history. I found that so fascinating and so fantastic. I would recommend it to friends, family, it’s well worth the time. You get to learn while having fun!”
Robert Johnson, teacher at Bridgwater College Academy, said: “Our safety talk, train trip and visit to Inspiration were fantastic and enriching – the interactive activities on board the train really engaged the children.”
Matt Cambourne, head of train planning at Great Western Railway, said: “Obviously the best way to get to the Railway 200 ‘Inspiration’ train is by rail. We’re really pleased to have partnered with the West Somerset Railway to allow visitors to arrive by a Great Western Railway train over this rarely used section of track.”
The Inspiration train will now continue its ongoing tour to over 60 locations across Britain. Learn more about the national Railway 200 celebrations and the exhibition train here.
Keep up to date with future news, projects and events from Platform Rail Education Scheme via their website.
