On 29 May, Rail 74 Community Rail Partnership supported a special transition trip for over 60 Primary 7 pupils and 10 adults from two local schools, travelling by train from Newton Station to Glasgow Central.
The trip was designed to help pupils build confidence using the railway as they prepare for the move from primary to secondary school. For many young people, this transition can bring new journeys, new routines and greater independence. Rail 74 CRP wanted to make that experience feel safer, more familiar and more positive.
The day was supported by Rail 74 CRP volunteers Fraser Hamilton, along with Lucy and Kimberley from Caf Rail, who helped guide and encourage the children throughout the journey.
What the Pupils Learned
During the trip, pupils had the chance to learn about:
- how to travel safely by train;
- what to expect at a station and on board;
- how to ask railway staff for help;
- how to behave safely around platforms and trains;
- how different people experience travel, including a short introduction through a quiz to autism and sensory needs;
- how rail can support independence as they grow older.
The children also enjoyed a free lunch, making the day feel like both a learning opportunity and a celebration of their next big step.
Building Confidence Through Real Experience
One of the most important parts of the day was giving pupils a real-life train travel experience in a supported and friendly way. Around 20% of the children had never travelled by train before, so this was a major confidence-building opportunity.
By travelling together, asking questions, meeting rail staff and experiencing a journey first-hand, pupils were able to see that the railway can be welcoming, safe and easy to use with the right support.
The feedback from school staff was extremely positive. Teachers commented that “the children have really learned today”, highlighting the value of practical, hands-on learning outside the classroom.
Partnership in Action
The success of the trip was made possible through strong partnership working. Rail 74 CRP would like to give a huge thank you to ScotRail, whose staff were fantastic throughout the day.
A special mention goes to Alex at Newton Station, who helped make the start of the journey welcoming and organised, and to the ScotRail staff and guards at Glasgow Central, who were helpful, patient and supportive. Their kindness and professionalism made a real difference to the experience of the children and adults taking part.
Rail 74 CRP would also like to thank ScotRail, Avanti West Coast and CrossCountry for funding and supporting activity that helps young people build confidence, independence and positive connections with rail travel.
Why This Matters
This transition trip was about much more than a day out. It supported young people at an important stage in their lives, helping them prepare for new routines, new journeys and new responsibilities.
For pupils who had never travelled by train before, the trip opened up a new experience. For those who already use rail, it helped reinforce safety, confidence and awareness of others. For all pupils, it was a chance to learn that rail travel can be part of their everyday lives, supporting education, family connections, leisure and future opportunities.
The day also helped pupils think about inclusion and understand that some people, including autistic people and those with sensory needs, may experience travel differently. This helped promote kindness, awareness and respect for others when using public transport.
A Great Day for Everyone
The children had a fantastic time, and the adults supporting the trip were proud to see how engaged, curious and confident the pupils became throughout the day.
Rail 74 CRP is delighted to have delivered another practical, community-focused rail confidence activity that supports young people, schools and local communities.
The trip showed what community rail is all about: bringing people together, building confidence, supporting inclusion and helping local communities get more from their railway.
Rail 74 Community Rail Partnership: connecting communities, improving journeys and making rail more accessible for all.
