Kelvedon schoolchildren learn about safety on the railway

Children at an Essex primary school enjoyed a whistle-stop tour of the railway following a visit to Abellio Greater Anglia’s Colchester station.

Youngsters in EYFS at Kelvedon St Mary’s C of E Primary Academy spent the morning learning about the railway on March 23.

Staff from Abellio Greater Anglia met the children at Kelvedon rail station and travelled to Colchester station where they had a tour, safety talk and met Pete Bugg - known as Platform Pete – who has completed 39 years’ service on the railway.

The children also spent time with train driver Bramwell Bines who told them about the evolution of the railway, answered questions and presented each child with a goodie bag.

Pete Bugg said: “It was a pleasure to welcome the children to the station and teach them about the railway and how they can stay safe. They were very well behaved and asked some good questions. We hope they all enjoyed their adventure.”

The visit also gave the children the chance to see the different types of trains Abellio Greater Anglia operates.

Miss Raymond, EYFS teacher at Kelvedon St Mary’s C of E Primary Academy, said: “The children all had a wonderful time with Platform Pete. They enjoyed getting involved with the signaling actions and were amazed and very pleased with their wonderful personalised goodie bags. A huge thank you goes to all the staff at Colchester Station for all their help, support and time.”