Year 10 Pupils Experience Rail and Civil Engineering at Newcastle College

A group of Year 10 pupils from Academy 360 spent the afternoon at Newcastle College’s Rail and Civil Engineering Academy on Wednesday 21 January 2026, taking part in a series of hands‑on activities designed to introduce them to careers in the engineering sector.

The visit began at 11.30am, with pupils meeting in the dining hall for an early lunch before heading off-site. After placing their iPads in JCO’s room and getting changed for enrichment where needed, the group set off from school at 12.00pm, arriving at the college shortly after 12.20pm.

On arrival, pupils were welcomed with a short presentation and a guided tour of the specialist facilities. Staff explained the different pathways available within rail and civil engineering, as well as the skills and qualifications needed to progress in the industry.

At 1.00pm, pupils took part in a practical railway engineering challenge, working in teams to construct a small tabletop railway track. The task proved more challenging than expected, requiring careful planning, communication and accuracy. The group showed excellent listening and problem‑solving skills as they worked together to complete the activity.

The next session, beginning at 1.45pm, introduced pupils to civil engineering and CAD design. Working in a computer lab with a Civil Engineering lecturer, they learned how digital tools are used to design structures and plan real-world engineering projects.

After a short feedback discussion at 2.25pm and final evaluations at 2.30pm, the group departed the venue and returned to school for 2.50pm, collecting their iPads before heading to enrichment.

The visit gave pupils a valuable insight into the wide range of opportunities available within engineering and encouraged many to think more seriously about their future career options after Year 11.

Academy 360 would like to say a huge thank you to the staff at Newcastle College for hosting the visit and delivering such an engaging and inspiring experience.