Northern depot team repair railway classroom and help with safety training by building new ‘level crossing’

The Dales School in Blyth needed some urgent maintenance to their retired pacer which they affectionally call their 'STEM lab on wheels,' – and called in the group led by Northern’s senior production manager Gary Barnes. The specialist primary school provides education for children with a variety of additional needs. 

The team helped spruce up the classroom, fixing a leak in the roof and replacing some window seals. 

The train, formerly operated by Northern, was donated by rolling stock owner and asset manager Porterbrook and placed on a short length of track donated and installed by Network Rail in 2021.  

The Northern team also installed a ‘level crossing’ walkway and safety signs for the children so they can understand and practice railway safety.  

Kerry Peters, regional director at Northern, said: “Our team are proud to be able to support the Dales School and it’s vital that children learn how to use the railway safely.  

“At Northern, we aim to make a positive impact for the north east and the communities we serve.”  

Northern is the second largest train operator in the UK, with 2,500 services a day to more than 500 stations across the North of England.