Tickets Please for the Inspiration Train!

In November, Platform led five unforgettable trips to mark Railway 200 at the picturesque Bishops Lydeard station on the West Somerset Railway. This landmark celebration brought together history, engineering, and conservation in a way that captured the imagination of young people and educators alike.

Before setting off from their local train stations, students took part in rail safety workshops led by Sophie and Tom. These sessions ensured that every participant understood how to travel safely and confidently by train — an especially important step for the 19 students experiencing rail travel for the very first time.

Throughout the week, 157 students from Polden Bower, Bridgwater College Academy, Winterstoke Hundred, and Priory Community School joined the programme. Their journey began at their local stations, travelling on GWR services to Taunton, followed by a shuttle or coach ride to the West Somerset Railway, where the highlight awaited: stepping aboard the Railway 200 Inspiration Train.

The Inspiration Train featured three carriages, each designed to spark curiosity and creativity:

• Past Carriage: Students explored the rich history of the railway and its role in shaping communities across generations.
• Wonderlab Carriage: Hands-on engineering activities encouraged problem-solving and innovation, giving students a taste of the skills behind railway design and maintenance.
• Future Carriage: Students discovered the wide range of future opportunities within the railway industry, from engineering and planning to conservation and customer service.

This blend of past, present, and future gave students a holistic view of how railways have continued to connect people and possibilities for 200 years!

On Thursday and Friday, the experience was enriched by conservation workshops led by West Somerset Railway’s education staff. Students learned about protecting species along the railway line and the importance of safeguarding natural habitats. These sessions highlighted how railways are not only about transport but also about caring for the environment they pass through.

Adding a powerful historical dimension, pupils from Bridgwater College Academy dressed as World War II evacuees, linking the railway heritage theme to their classroom studies. Their efforts even caught the attention of BBC Points West, showcasing the creativity and dedication of the students.

The trip left a lasting impression on students and teachers alike:

Jaden, Year 8: “I really liked the sand in the Inspiration train. It was a very fun experience.”

Sienna, Year 9: “The best part was the Inspiration train. You got to learn loads of history. I found that so fascinating and so fantastic. I would recommend it to friends, family, it’s well worth the time. You get to learn while having fun!”

Robert Johnson, Teacher at Bridgwater College Academy: “The Inspiration Train’s interactive activities were fantastic and really engaged the children. Our safety talk, on the train and visit to the Inspiration Train were fantastic and enriching.”

Sophie Lounds, Platform Rail Learning Development Officer: “What an amazing week of trips aboard the Inspiration Train, it was an unforgettable and educational experience for everyone involved, including the Platform team!”

Matt Cambourne, GWR Head of Train Planning: “Obviously the best way to get to the Railway 200 ‘Inspiration’ train is by rail. We’re really pleased to have partnered with the West Somerset Railway to allow visitors to arrive by a GWR train over this rarely used section of track.”

The Railway 200 celebrations were more than just a commemoration — they were a living classroom. Students left inspired by history, motivated by engineering challenges, and aware of their role in conservation. It was a week of learning, fun, and discovery that will stay with them for years to come.

The Inspiration Train is still touring, bringing its unique blend of history and engineering to communities across the country. To find out where it’s heading next and how to get involved, check out the official website for upcoming locations and details.

https://railway200.co.uk/inspiration/

Platform would like to extend their thanks to all involved in these amazing trips, in particular to West Somerset Railway for hosting the students and staff, the amazing Railway 200 team, and to GWR for supplying the complementary rail passes.