Bradford College Students Develop Innovative Motor Vehicle Training Tools

Practical workshops lead to new hands-on learning methods

Motor vehicle students aged 14 to 16 at Bradford College have been involved in a project to enhance their practical learning experience by creating specialised training equipment from real cars. This initiative aims to improve focus and skill development during workshop sessions.

Creating training jigs from existing vehicles

During their practical sessions, students often worked around a fully intact car in the workshop. While useful, the complete vehicle sometimes proved distracting for learners. To address this, students and staff collaborated to modify existing cars, transforming them into purpose-built training jigs.

These modified vehicles allow students to concentrate on specific motor vehicle tasks such as component removal, fitting, and fault diagnosis without the complications of a fully operational car. The approach breaks down the learning process into manageable stations, enabling a more focused and hands-on experience.

Skills development and creative projects

Alongside technical skills, students have engaged in creative activities such as painting and personalising the new training rigs. Additionally, they repurposed another vehicle into a large planter, combining engineering with environmental creativity.

• Focus on mechanical skills through targeted training stations
• Development of teamwork, design, and problem-solving abilities
• Integration of creative elements in workshop projects

This project represents a new approach for the college’s motor vehicle programme, emphasising practical learning and innovation. It also highlights the importance of combining technical education with creativity and collaboration.

Educational benefits

The initiative demonstrates how hands-on projects can enhance student engagement and skill acquisition beyond traditional classroom settings. By working directly with modified vehicles, students gain valuable experience that supports their understanding of motor vehicle mechanics and maintenance.

Overall, the project reflects Bradford College’s commitment to providing practical and innovative learning opportunities for its students.