This half term in Design Technology, the children have been learning all about bridges, taking inspiration from one of Newcastle’s most iconic structures — the Swing Bridge.
We began by exploring the history of the bridge and discovering more about its inventor, William Armstrong, whose engineering brilliance helped shape the city’s industrial past.
From there, the children investigated different types of bridges, including truss, cable and beam designs, comparing their structures and discussing why certain shapes and supports make bridges stronger. This knowledge helped them think like real engineers when planning their own models.
Next came the practical challenge! Working in teams, the pupils created a circuit with a moving motor, learning how electrical components can be used to power mechanisms. They then applied their understanding to build their own model swing bridges, using card and art straws to form strong, stable structures.
The most exciting moment was testing their designs. The children attached their bridges to the spinning motor and were thrilled to see their creations rotate both clockwise and anticlockwise, just like the real Swing Bridge.
The project was a brilliant combination of engineering, teamwork and creativity, and the children were incredibly proud of what they achieved.
