BUDDING youngsters have been putting their creative skills to the test by building their own cars.

Pupils at Old Hall Primary School in Brandlesholme took part in an initiative called Primary Engineer, aimed at developing children’s engineering skills.

The project also aims to encourage more girls to pursue a career in engineering.

After designing and building their own kit cars, youngsters then showed them off at a celebration event held at the school on Friday.

Year three teacher Claire Hornsby said: “The children have gained so much from building their own vehicles, some had very tricky electronics to include too, so it has challenged them to try something new.

“They have also benefitted from mentoring from engineers of all backgrounds, including AMS Neve founder, Mark Crabtree, who has won Oscars for his sound engineering of Hollywood films. It was fantastic to have him visit the school.”

Headteacher Deborah Ainscoe added: “The school works closely with industry so children can get a sense of what type of jobs they can go on to do once they leave school.

“Primary Engineer has given us an opportunity to build our connections and knowledge of the engineering sector.”

Primary Engineer is not currently funded by Bury Council, although a representative attended the event at the school, in Springside View, to explore whether schools elsewhere in the borough could benefit from the scheme.

Bury North James Frith MP also attended the celebration.

He said: “Seeing the children’s enthusiasm and commitment to their projects has been inspiring and it is great for them to explore new skills, especially in a sector which has clear job opportunities. I hope that Bury Council will look at funding this scheme to expand their commitment to STEM subjects.”