ALL ABROAD THE EDUCATION EXPRESS

On Tuesday 11 June 2024, Elizabeth Cocks, train driver, had the pleasure of visiting her children’s school, St Bedes RC School and Nursery, to share her experiences and insights with the young students. This opportunity was particularly meaningful as it allowed Elizabeth to engage with the children in a discussion about railway safety and the vital role of train drivers.

Elizabeth was initially contacted by the reception teacher and was thrilled to accept the invitation, despite having only five days to prepare: “When my oldest child started school, I was asked to come and do what will be familiar to most in the railway—the railway safety speech,” she explained, “This year, I thought I had missed it, but then I got the familiar call from the reception teacher asking if I could come in and speak to the children.”

Recalling her past visit, Elizabeth noted, “Last time I went into school, I had a few weeks to prepare, so I was able to get supplies from Swiss Cottage. This time, I couldn’t even manage one of the large London connections maps to cover a bit of geography with the children. So, I’ll be heading back for another visit. While the children can use the screens, it’s great when they can use hard versions as well.”

During her visit, Elizabeth spoke to two classes of four- and five-year-olds, managing to captivate their attention and make them feel included. She began by asking the children what they thought her job was, to which they eagerly responded, likely primed by her daughter, that she was a train driver. “Since my daughter found out I was going to school for the talk, she couldn’t wait,” Elizabeth shared, “When she saw me taking her to school in my uniform, she knew the day had arrived. Little did any of us know that they were also having their Ofsted inspection, so no pressure there then!”

Elizabeth shared essential safety tips, “I always start by asking the children what they think I do and this year I’m assuming my daughter had prepared them that I’m a train driver as that was the first answer,” she said. “I wear my uniform and ask what tells them I drive trains. This year it’s the logo and top, etc., as usual.”

These simple yet effective interactions promote respect for the railway in an engaging manner. Elizabeth explained, “I follow with a few questions about the nearest station, which always leads to ‘my mum, dad, aunt, sister etc travels by train’. We then speak about minding the gap when getting on and off the train, "I have to say my kids love this and as a driver, it does help time to pass while encouraging young children to respect the railway in a non-conscious way.”

The highlight of the session was the children's questions. Elizabeth fondly recalled “One of my favourite questions this year was, ‘Does your train fly?’, to which I replied ‘no’ while thinking of a Hollywood action film scene.” Elizabeth promised to return with photos to show the children all the places her train driver friends have travelled.

Since her visit, Elizabeth has continued to engage with the children and their families. One memorable moment was when a child referred to her partner as a train, showcasing the lasting impression she made. “One of the children went up to my partner and said to him, ‘You’re a train (driver). It made me wonder what’s the strangest question you’ve been asked as a member of railway staff?”

Elizabeth's experience at St Bedes RC School and Nursery was not only rewarding but also underscored the positive impact railway professionals can have on young minds. She left with a sense of pride and accomplishment, eager to inspire the next generation and curious to hear from her fellow railway staff about their unique experiences and questions.