THE next generation of engineers have been learning to design, build and operate their own cars - thanks to a unique partnership.

‘Making it in Burnley’ is a pioneering project between all the town’s primary schools and leading engineering businesses aimed at developing the UK’s next generation of engineers.

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Mark Crabtree, managing director of Oscar-winning sound engineering firm AMS Neve, returned to his old school, Ightenhill Primary, to work with the youngsters on the project.

He said: “I had been thinking for some time how to enable primary age children to have the grounding in making things which l was lucky enough to experience in Burnley at that age, and led ultimately and directly to AMS Neve.”

He even had the chance to thank his former teacher, Mr Chaffer, for inspiring him.

“It is vital to inspire youngsters with the interest, opportunity and ambition to lead to their future prosperity, and that of Burnley.

“The children were enthused with it and watching them help each other and work out problems brought smiles of triumph and satisfaction to their faces.

“You could see their brains whirring as they were learning through play. It was magical.”

The UK-wide not-for-profit organisation Primary Engineer is located on the AMS Neve technology park in Burnley and is based firmly on a partnership between schools and local businesses, developing an interest in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects.

Teachers have been trained on how to deliver workshops with an emphasis on practical skills and problem-solving.

So far around 100,000 young people have taken part, with Burnley’s schools having the biggest single take up of the scheme.

Engineers from nearby companies, including AMS Neve and Fort Vale, supported teachers in delivering classes and this year 28 of the town’s primary schools are taking part.

Primary Engineer was formed in 2005 by ex-teacher Susan Scurlock, from Great Harwood, who said: “Before they know it the children are using maths and science to design, build and test battery-powered cardboard trucks. They absolutely love it and at the same time it gets them into thinking about engineering.”