This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
Children learn about HS2 and safety near railways and construction sites
19/07/2023
“Hopefully the programme will help to inspire the next generation of engineers”
Pupils from Chipping Warden Primary Academy enjoyed a different start to the school day with a ‘site safari tour’ of HS2’s construction sites.
The pupils, aged 4-11, donned mini safety helmets and high-viz jackets before boarding the site safari vehicle for a safe trip to see and learn about the bridges, viaducts and tunnels being built in their local area.
They also met author Chris Madeley, who has written a new children’s book, Cones and High Speed Rail, which aims to educate children about how to stay safe near railway lines and around construction sites. She read the story to the young people, who each received a copy to take home with them.
During the tour, the pupils learnt about the diggers, excavators and specialist machinery being used to build the new railway. They made notes and drew pictures on their activity sheets, which were developed to enhance the learning programme.
The new site safari programme and the launch of Cones and High Speed Rail form part of an extensive programme of skills, education, and employment initiatives.
The tour hosted was hosted by HS2’s construction partner EKFB – a joint venture between Eiffage, Kier, Ferrovial Construction and BAM Nuttall.
Jhen-Nel Swanston, HS2’s Legacy Manager for the region said: “We’re exceptionally proud of the work that EKFB is doing with local schools in Northamptonshire and Buckinghamshire.
“The new site safari programme is a fun and safe way to bring young people onto our construction sites where they can learn about how HS2 is being built. Hopefully the programme will help to inspire the next generation of engineers that will build the HS2 network to Manchester and the East Midlands.”
Sarah Bonner, Headteacher at Chipping Warden Primary Academy said: “The children enjoyed listening to ‘Cones and High Speed Rail’ and then seeing the locations from the story in real life. They loved asking questions and finding out facts from their trip.”
EKFB will be donating 1,500 copies of its new children’s safety book to libraries, summer clubs, and schools in the local area. Copies will also be distributed to children who take part in the site safari programme to enhance the overall learning experience.
Community groups in Northamptonshire and Buckinghamshire, who would like to register an interest in the site safari and book giveaway programme are encouraged to contact the Education Team by emailing earlycareers@ekfb.com.
Published: by Banbury FM Newsteam