Bromgrove pupils design a railway station for the future

St John’s C of E Middle School Academy in Bromsgrove and two schools in Worcester have taken part in an art competition designed to inspire young minds to think about the next generation of sustainable transport.

Pupils from St John’s, along with students from Norton Juxta Kempsey C of E Primary School, and St Barnabas C of E First and Middle School were invited to create designs for an eco-friendly station of the future as part of the Railway 200 celebrations.

Tom Painter, chair of the Worcestershire Community Rail Partnership (WCRP), said: "The ideas the children have shared are genuinely inspiring.

"Their artwork shows how clearly the next generation understands sustainability, community and the importance of rail in everyday life.

"As we mark 200 years of railways, their visions remind us that the future of rail is in very thoughtful hands."

The pupils, aged seven to 11, explored railway history and modern networks before imagining what stations could look like in 20 years.

Their artwork included green roofs, solar panels, wildlife habitats, cycle hubs, community cafés and public art.

Judges from Community Interest Company, Artists Clubhouse selected an overall winner, whose design will go on public display at Bromsgrove railway station with the support of West Midlands Rail.

The first-place winner was also awarded a family train trip to London, with certificates and additional prizes given to runners-up and all participating schools.

Katie Hall, head of year at St John’s C of E Middle School Academy, said: "Taking part in the project gave our school a valuable opportunity to enrich learning beyond the classroom.

"It was great to get involved in a local community project and make the children aware of the wider role that West Midlands Rail Service has."