KS2 DT: Engineering Bridges with Brunel Workshop
KS2 DT / History: Engineering Bridges with Brunel Workshop Overview
This hands-on workshop explores the remarkable contributions of Isambard Kingdom Brunel, one of the most influential engineers of the Industrial Revolution. Aligned with KS2 history topics on technological advancements and their impact on society, this session integrates history, science, and design technology.
Students will delve into Brunel’s innovative bridge designs, focusing on his iconic arched railway bridges. Through interactive discussions and practical challenges, they will investigate structural principles, understand how Brunel revolutionised transport, and examine his lasting influence on modern engineering.
The workshop culminates in an exciting LEGO building challenge, where students will apply key engineering concepts to construct their own arched railway bridge.
Workshop Learning Objectives
By participating in this workshop, students will:
- Understand the significance of Isambard Kingdom Brunel and his contributions to engineering during the Industrial Revolution.
- Identify different types of bridges and explain their functions, with a particular focus on arched railway bridges.
- Explore key design and technology principles, including how structures are strengthened and reinforced.
- Investigate how engineering principles used by Brunel influence modern-day transport and infrastructure.
- Apply problem-solving and creativity to design and build a structurally sound arched railway bridge using LEGO.
Workshop Learning Outcomes
By the end of the school workshop students will be able to :
- Be able to describe who Isambard Kingdom Brunel was and explain why his work was significant.
- Recognise and compare different bridge structures, understanding their historical and practical applications.
- Demonstrate knowledge of how shape and material choice impact bridge strength and durability.
- Use hands-on learning to reinforce their understanding of engineering and structural design.
- Successfully design and construct a LEGO arched railway bridge, meeting a specific design brief.
What to Expect From This Workshop
This cross-curricular workshop seamlessly integrates History, Science, and Design & Technology, engaging students through storytelling, discussion, and hands-on problem-solving. The session introduces students to Brunel’s work, particularly his arched railway bridges, such as the Maidenhead Railway Bridge in Berkshire. Key aspects include:
Historical Exploration: Understanding Brunel’s role in the Industrial Revolution and the impact of his engineering marvels.
Scientific Principles: Examining how bridge shapes affect strength and stability.
Practical Application: A hands-on LEGO challenge where students build their own arched railway bridge.
Curriculum Support: Aligns with KS2 history objectives (significant individuals in history), science (forces and materials), and design technology (structures and reinforcement).
Hands-On Activity Details
During the 75 minute workshop the students will:
Design and build an arched railway bridge using LEGO to span two 32×32 baseplates.
Design Brief:
The bridge must be an arched railway bridge, inspired by Brunel’s designs.
It should allow a train (represented by a LEGO model) to pass across.
The structure must be strong and stable, incorporating reinforcement techniques.
Teams should consider the materials and techniques Brunel used in his engineering projects.
Why Students Will Enjoy This Workshop
This workshop brings history and engineering to life through hands-on learning and teamwork. Students will have the opportunity to test their designs under weight challenges, just like real engineers.
The session fosters creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking, making learning both engaging and memorable. By investigating bridge structures and applying scientific and DT principles, students gain confidence in their design skills and develop an appreciation for the engineering that shapes the world around them.
Breakdown Of Duration
This KS2 DT: Engineering Bridges with Brunel workshop is a total of 75 minutes long.
- Introduction (5 mins) – Overview of Brunel and the session objectives.
- Visual Presentation (10 mins) – Exploring Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s bridges and engineering impact.
- LEGO Activity (40 mins) – Hands-on bridge building challenge.
- Summary, Photos & Tidy-up (10 mins) – Showcase builds, reflect on learning, and conclude.
Pricing Information
Our KS2 Design and Technology school workshops provide exceptional educational value and hands-on experiences for students.
Pricing is tailored based on location, group size, and session length. Please contact us to discuss your requirements and receive a personalised quote
Enquire about this workshop today
Discover how the ‘KS2 DT / History: Engineering Bridges with Brunel‘ workshop can bring history to life in your classroom. Contact Build to Learn today to enquire about availability and tailored options for your school!
With over a decade of experience as the founder of Brickies Club Limited, I have inspired thousands of children aged 4 to 16 to develop creativity and problem-solving skills through LEGO-based activities. Now leading Build to Learn Limited, I deliver hands-on workshops that align with curriculum goals in STEM, history, and more. My expertise extends beyond practical delivery, incorporating a deep understanding of diverse learning styles to create impactful, memorable sessions that foster teamwork, curiosity, and critical thinking.
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