PUPILS at District primary got to grips with engineering as part of a specially-themed STEM week which saw them explore the heritage of Newton-le-Willows.

In partnership with engineering company Bam Nuttall, youngsters engaged in a variety of themed activities for their final 'STEM week'.

Focusing on the Nine Arches railway bridge, designed by George Stephenson, children from ages two to 11 were involved in designing, building and testing bridges, both in the classroom and outdoors.

The week aimed to show how STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and maths) offer aspirational career ideas.

Pupils from years three, four and five entered the school's own 'mock site', set up on the playground, complete with site rules, hard hats, and hi-vis PPE.

Children built a large scale suspension bridge, then tested it out by standing on it themselves.

Within the classroom, pupils took on specific roles as they worked collaboratively to design, build and test bridge designs, supported by BAM.

Parents and carers also got involved being invited to learn together with their child.

At the end of the project, stand out pupils were rewarded as 'engineers of the week', with certificates, goody bags and a site visit to the Nine Arches with Bam Nuttall staff.

Gareth Jones, design manager at Bam Nuttall said: "The STEM week has been extremely enjoyable for all Bam staff involved. It has been a real pleasure teaching potential engineers of the future, utilising our knowledge of the past and present."

Heather Wright, STEM leader at the school, added: "The week has been truly incredible. As usual, the brilliant District Staff have put on a wonderful week for our fantastic pupils.

"It has been a joy to see the smiles on inspired pupil's faces; to watch them persevere with frustrating, demanding tasks, to hear inspired pupils discuss what engineers they'd like to be in the future and to give our pupils a memorable, motivating experience.

"Huge thanks go to Bam Nuttall for their partnership this week."