READING Station once again played host to a project inspiring youngsters to connect with design, architecture, engineering, and public spaces.
The third iteration of Look, Draw, and Build @Reading Station saw 500 primary school students building their own models of the station.
Predominantly Year 5 and Year 6 pupils from English Martyrs, St Martins, Oxford Rd Community School, Calcot, New Christ Church, St Johns, Whitley Park, St Edwards Prep, The Avenue, and Brookfields were among those taking part.
It began in April, when participants explored the history of British rail as well as practical and design considerations before taking a trip to Didcot Railway Centre.
They also took part in modelling workshops led by representatives from engineering companies, including Stantec and Ridge and Partners, before creating models of their own.
Each school selected a model to represent them in a competition, judged by representatives from Haslams Estate Agents, who have continued to sponsor the event since its inception.
They were joined by representatives from Great Western Railway, Network Rail, Stantec, Ridge & Partners and Weston & Co Architects, as well as Archi Adventure’s Gemma Solenellas, who flew over from Barcelona.
Submissions were judged using eight criteria such as demonstrating innovation in design, with the gold medal eventually going to English Martyrs School.
They won a funded trip for the winning class to Didcot Parkway, likely to take place in the autumn, and are now looking to raise funds to bring other participating classes.
