Some of our pupils recently had the opportunity to present their innovative ideas at the RSA Spark Digital Showcase 2024/25. This annual event, organised by the Royal Society for Arts, Manufactures* and Commerce (RSA), highlights exceptional student-led projects that address real-world challenges. Our students participated in a competition against other school and university students, collaborating in teams to develop sustainable solutions for improving the railway system. Their ideas were selected, earning them an invitation to spend the day and evening at the RSA House in London, where they presented their concepts to professionals and fellow students. This experience not only showcased their creativity and problem-solving skills but also brought them one step closer to potentially winning the competition. The pupils submitted in the ‘Railway 200 & Beyond’ category, considering the question: “How might we take inspiration from 200 years of railway success while innovating for an even brighter future?”

Their proposals can be found on the RSA website at: www.thersa.org/design-for-life-our-mission/capabilities-for-life/rsa-spark/rsa-spark-digital-showcase-2024-2025/rsa-spark-railway-200-beyond-showcase

Ben W, Ed Y and Aidan C in Year 13 – Commuter Carriage. Aqeel R, Sion K, Ben J, Nishant P in Year 11 – Turbine Train.

*The term ‘Manufactures’ refers to the RSA’s historical focus on promoting industrial innovation and craftsmanship. While the organisation's mission has evolved to encompass broader social and environmental goals, the original name remains unchanged.