Based in Saltley, the school has triumphed in countrywide competitions, winning both the Primary Engineer Rail competition and the renowned “If I Were An Engineer…” project, placing Parkfield at the forefront of primary STEM education in the region.
The Primary Engineer Rail Programme is a national initiative designed to inspire children by linking curriculum learning with real-world engineering. Students at Parkfield were tasked with designing and building their own rail-themed projects, working alongside industry professionals who offered mentoring and support. The programme not only developed pupils’ technical skills but also encouraged teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving.
Earlier this term, pupils presented their rail-themed inventions at a regional showcase, where several pupils received distinction and merit awards for their innovative designs. The school's participation in the Primary Engineer Rail Programme has been a highlight of the academic year, with two pupils receiving special awards for their outstanding engineering oracy. Principal Engineer, Ian Dean, was impressed by pupils’ design choices and the adjustments they had made, even commenting that he had never heard pupils discuss their processes in such detail.
Meanwhile, pupils also took part in the "If I Were an Engineer, What Would I Do?" competition, known nationally as the Leader’s Award. Inviting hundreds of children from across the country to identify problems in the world and design creative engineering solutions, Parkfield entries included eco-friendly transport solutions, inventions to help people with disabilities, and innovative water-saving devices.
Driving much of this momentum is the school’s upgraded STEM Lab, which has provided advanced resources and equipment to deepen hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering and maths.
James Wright, Headteacher at Parkfield Community School, said:
“It’s been an incredible year for STEM at Parkfield. Our pupils have shown not just technical skill, but real imagination and purpose in everything they’ve designed. They’ve tackled real-world problems with empathy and innovation.
“As we reflect on these fantastic achievements, we’re already looking ahead. Our commitment to STEM is long-term, and we’ll continue to create opportunities that ignite curiosity, develop practical skills and inspire ambition in every child.”
With an ever-evolving STEM Lab, national engineering accolades and a growing culture of innovation, Parkfield is proudly shaping the next generation of scientists, engineers and problem-solvers.