G.E.S.C - Our story so far

The Great Engineers Schools Challenge is a family-run organisation established in 2013 by Harry and Kathleen Harker, along with their daughter Sheila Richardson and son Barry Harker. Our mission is to inspire and engage young minds in the field of engineering through hands-on learning experiences.

We originally thought of this challenge after realising the lack of junior members in our local Meccano society, and the predictions regarding the lack of engineers in the workforce in the coming years. The experts report this is due to the actual engineering skills are being lost in the younger generation. We set up this free meccano challenge within the local primary schools in 2013 with 3 schools as a pilot scheme and the judging took place at the North East Meccano Society annual exhibition in Darlington. As this proved very successful it was extended to 7 schools in 2014 and due to the increase in numbers the judging was moved to the Locomotion Museum at Shildon, again it was a very successful day and all schools signed up again for 2015 with a further 7 schools signing up, bringing the number of children up to 150 attending the challenge.

We start the challenge at the beginning of the Autumn term as this is the best time for the event, as this does not impinge on work for exams etc. Each school is supplied with six identical meccano kits which can build one of several models. Students normally work in groups and work together to put one of the models together over the course of six weeks, usually working 1 hour a week. We also have a group of mentors who go into the schools to assist by giving guidance on how to put the models together properly.

What the challenge is about:

The Great Engineers Schools Challenge aims to to provide students with an engaging platform to explore engineering concepts through practical model-building activities. The challenge is open to any schools or groups in the 5-11 yr old range. Participants work on a series of projects that help them develop problem-solving skills, creativity, and teamwork. The challenge not only enhances thier understanding of engineering but also boosts thier confidence and ability to work collaboratively.

In Summary, the Great Engineers Schools Challenge is more than just a competition; it is a nurturing space where young people can explore, learn, and grow, backed by a supportive network that believes in thier potential and success.

How To Take Part:

Do you want your school or group to take part in this challenge and be a part of this fun filled day? If so then get in touch as soon as possible as places are limited due to a high re-enrolment. For enquiries please email: info@greatengineersschoolschallenge.co.uk

Any children that have Meccano at home and wish to be involved may fetch models along for display purpose only. We would love to see these models as we wish to encourage further involvement from the children unfortunately though these will not currently be judged as part of the challenge, but will be judged separately by the museum staff.