Schools Programme Launches to Commemorate Local Engineering Milestone
All aboard for a new STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) initiative bringing together local schools with engineering and manufacturing companies to inspire the future generation of engineers.
Stourbridge Lion 2029 CIC has partnered with Primary Engineer, an educational not-for-profit, to bring rail engineering to 10 local schools through the Primary Engineer Rail Programme.
Primary Engineer will be training teachers from local schools in April, giving these teachers the skills and knowledge they need to feel confident in delivering this STEM based whole class project in their classrooms. Over the summer term, Key Stage 1 and 2 pupils will build their own locomotive models while getting to interact with engineering professionals in class from the Stourbridge Lion 2029 project – giving them an opportunity to learn about the history of the Stourbridge Lion, the future of engineering and manufacturing and are encouraged to think about a future role within this exciting and rapidly evolving sector. The programme accumulates with a school celebration event as pupils celebrate their achievements.
The programme will reach over 500 young people who will also learn about the history of the Stourbridge Lion locomotive, the future of manufacturing, and think about their place in it. Stourbridge Lion 2029 CIC is hoping to inspire more young people, including women and people from diverse backgrounds, to consider careers in engineering.
Partner organisation Primary Engineer is an educational not-for-profit organisation founded in 2005 which aims to engage both primary and secondary school pupils and teachers with the vast and inspirational world of engineering and technology. They work with businesses and industry across the UK to help develop a future, diverse generation of engineering and technology professionals.
Stourbridge Lion 2029 CIC is a not-for-profit organisation that has been set up to commemorate and celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Stourbridge Lion locomotive. Designed and made in Stourbridge, The Stourbridge Lion is one of the earliest vehicles to be manufactured in the West Midlands and became the first engine to run on rail track in the USA. As well as raising awareness of this important cultural and industrial history, the CIC hopes to work with community and local industry to use the Stourbridge Lion as a vehicle for improving local skills and aspiration.
Stourbridge Lion 2029 CIC is grateful for the support of a number of leading local businesses and organisations, including engineering recruitment company Jonathan Lee, local manufacturing companies SYR (Scott Young Research), Sponmech, JVM Castings (Kidderminster) and Evtech Aluminium Ltd (Worcester), and the Lanchester Trust. The schools programme would not be taking place without their generous support.
There are still places available for local schools, register your interest here: https://www.primaryengineer.com/primary-engineer-rail-programme/
Stourbridge Lion 2029 CIC is keen to hear from any local firms that would like to join us in the programme, either to fund local schools activity, or to express interest in taking part in the future build of a new Lion locomotive, utilising new materials and propulsion technologies. Visit their website https://stourbridgelion2029.com/ or contact us on info@stourbridgelion2029.com.
Andrew Norris Head of Partnerships for North West England, Primary Engineer said:
“We are absolutely delighted to receive support from the Stourbridge Lion 2029 CIC and their local partners. This funding enables us to expand our work inspiring young people to discover what they could achieve through engineering whilst also learning about their local industrial history. By connecting pupils with local engineers and hands on projects, we aim to spark curiosity, build confidence, and help the next generation see themselves as the problem solvers and innovators of the future. This partnership strengthens our mission to open doors for every child, and we couldn’t be more excited about the impact it will help us create.”
David Sheppard, Managing Director, Sponmech, said:
“Sponmech is delighted to donate to this outstanding engineering and educational project. It’s full steam ahead now. We’re proud to help get this initiative fired up!”
Sally Stokes, Group Managing Director, Scot Young Research Ltd (SYR), said:
“We are proud to support this initiative, which builds on a strong legacy of educational excellence and community commitment. By honouring the past while investing in the future, the initiative fosters opportunity, innovation, and inclusion. This effort reflects our shared belief in education as a lasting force for positive change, and we look forward to the enduring impact it will have on generations to come.”
Kevin Hubbard, COO, Evtec Group, said:
“Engineering has always been about more than machines — it’s about people, skills and aspiration. Supporting the Stourbridge Lion 2029 programme is a natural fit for Evtec, because it connects our region’s proud industrial heritage with the engineers of the future. By engaging young people early, and showing them that modern manufacturing is innovative, inclusive and exciting, we’re helping to build a stronger pipeline of talent for UK industry for decades to come.”
David Roberts, Chairman, JVM Castings Worcester, said:
“As a local foundry with deep roots in the Black Country, JVM Castings is proud to support a programme that celebrates the Stourbridge Lion and uses it to inspire the next generation. Manufacturing today is high-tech, sustainable and full of opportunity, and initiatives like this help young people see that engineering can offer rewarding careers close to home.”
Simon Meddings, Director, Stourbridge Lion 2029 CIC, said:
“The support for this project has been unwavering from the outset. All partners have committed to the initiative, generously providing services and materials that have been essential in helping us achieve our objectives. We are especially grateful to the local engineering industries whose financial support has played a vital role in enabling us to engage with schools and deliver the education programme. Their engagement has significantly strengthened the project’s impact and reach within the community.”