Institution news
IMechE members are contributing their time and expertise through the Primary Engineer Programme, which pairs schools with an engineering professional. Together we’re sparking curiosity about engineering in the classroom, and giving both teachers and students the confidence to explore and innovate.
Our members are providing inspiration and real-world insights to boost the profile of railway engineering in schools. It’s that experience that gives context to the fun classroom activities.
"Primary Engineer represents a holistic and systems thinking approach to engineering education outreach. Young people designing innovative solutions, engaging with engineers and learning about the profession before the winning prototypes go on to be built as physical prototypes by engineering undergrads. IMechE supports Primary Engineer as it taps into every stage of the engineering pipeline and enables inspiration and innovation at each step!"
- Jelena Gacesa IMechE Education Outreach & Safeguarding Lead
What does volunteering look like for our engineers?
IMechE Railway Division members recently volunteered at a teacher training day, at a school in London.
The engineers worked with school staff to build shoebox-based locomotives. These ranged from those aimed at younger children, with no motive power, but a neat braking mechanism; to more sophisticated locomotives incorporating battery, motor and gear train. Teachers and volunteer engineers noted how children could explore their builds: could they adjust to stop it at an exact spot?
Rebeka Sellick, Chair of IMechE Railway Division:
“We were a friendly and enthusiastic team of engineers and teachers, learning together how best to help children get excited about the subject.
What I did best was sit on my hands and let the teachers do the practical stuff, while asking them pertinent questions, before something was built askew! The whole day was great fun and inspired us to share the learning we'd modelled with the school children in the coming weeks."
The next step is in school, supporting children with hands-on engineering activities. We know these experiences encourage children to consider engineering careers, emphasising the impact, value and excitement of the profession.
Could you be part of sparking a passion for railway engineering?
To-date the project has increased engineering knowledge and confidence in teachers, as well as positively influencing children’s STEM aspirations. We know that innovation and engineering skills are needed now more than ever, and rail engineering is well placed to spark children’s curiosity. For the future of the profession to flourish, we must attract a wide range of young people into the industry.
Commitment is around 10-12 hours total, with a training day, one in-school visit and a celebration event. Find out more and sign up.