Build it, Test it, Tweak it!

On Friday 28th November, a bright and eager group of Year 5 pupils from St Edward’s Prep spent the day at Leighton Park taking part in an engaging and hands-on Design and Technology workshop. The session, led by Jeff Fuller (DT Teacher), made full use of the school’s DT facilities and offered the children a memorable mix of creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork.

The morning began with an introductory classroom activity in which the pupils explored core design principles and learnt about simple mechanical systems. Equipped with this understanding, they then moved on to the main challenge: working in pairs to construct their own Lego Technik vehicles. Their mission was to design a car sturdy and powerful enough to climb a ramp that grew steeper with each test.

Throughout the workshop, the children tweaked their ideas, trialled their models, and made thoughtful adjustments. The steady cycle of testing and improving helped them uncover which design features supported a successful climb — and which ones held their creations back. Collaboration proved essential, as the pairs learnt to discuss options and persevere when things did not go to plan.

Shourya awarded the workshop “10 out of 10”, describing it as “fabulous”. William agreed it was “fabulous”, adding that his favourite moment was “testing the cars on the ramp”. Seona particularly enjoyed “testing out the Lego car, building it and learning about the weight and what can help the car drive up [the ramp]”.

Both accompanying teachers commented on what their pupils took from the experience. Helen James, Head of STEM at St Edward’s Prep, hoped her pupils would gain “team work and understanding of how testing and adapting are all part of the design process”. Reflecting on the day, she described the workshop as “very successful. The children were all focussed even when faced with failure. Also the time went so quickly as they were all so engrossed”.

Tamara Hunt, Deputy Head at St Edwards Prep, echoed this, commenting “Great facilities, equipment and teaching. All the pupils thoroughly enjoyed themselves”.

Our visitors also enjoyed catching up with former students from their school who are now studying at LP.

The visit was an inspiring opportunity for St Edward’s Prep pupils to stretch their creativity and engineering thinking. We hope they enjoyed every moment — and we look forward to welcoming them back again soon. Click here to see more photos.