More than 70 children from a Swindon primary school have been learning about Isambard Kingdom Brunel and the contribution he made to the building of the railways, thanks to a special trip organised by the Platform Rail Education scheme.

For the trip in January of this year, pupils from Beechcroft Infants School travelled by Great Western Railway train to Bristol Temple Meads in the footsteps of Brunel, to find out more about the man who designed and built the line from London to Bristol in the 1830s and 40s. 

After the 35-minute journey, the children visited the statue of Brunel outside the station before taking part in a series of railway themed activities. After learning more about the famous engineer and taking part in a quiz, the youngsters then tried their hand at a number of engineering challenges based on the sort of problems some of the early railway engineers faced.

Platform was launched in May 2022, and delivers educational programmes on behalf of Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, Severnside, TransWilts, and South Wessex community rail partnerships to support students to develop their skills and confidence to travel by public transport, at no cost to the schools involved.

Sophie Martin, TransWilts CRP officer, said: “In addition to Platform’s usual inspiring workshops and trips, the team were keen to play their part in this year’s Railway 200 celebrations, especially as the counties of Wiltshire and Somerset were so significant in the creation of the network.

“The Brilliant Brunel programme was born and once again Platform has successfully engaged Swindon communities with the railway, allowing Beechcroft School students to learn about railway history and gain confidence in using sustainable transport.

“We are very proud of the Platform team. It is such a worthwhile project to be part of. Long may it continue.”

Deputy headteacher Liz Hancock said: “I have completed three visits with our Year 1 classes, and I can honestly say that this enrichment experience has been the most meaningful opportunity I have had the pleasure to be involved with in my 23-year career.

“Without doubt, this experience improved the life experiences of a significant number of children. Over 50% of the year group went on a train for the first time, and this would not have been possible without the passion, organisation and funding behind this initiative.

“Thank you so much for having this vision and making this valuable opportunity accessible and so enjoyable.”

Keep up to date with future news, projects and events from Platform via their website.