Early Engineers Express
A play-based EYFS and KS1 engineering workshop using LEGO Duplo trains. Children design, build, and test train tracks, bridges, and stations through hands-on construction challenges.
Early Learning Goals
EYFS Framework Links
These are relevant Early Learning Goal links for the stated activities; the workshop does not teach or assess the complete EYFS framework.
Understanding the World (EYFS)
Exploring and using technology; making observations; understanding how things work
Expressive Arts & Design (EYFS)
Creating with materials; building structures and exploring mechanisms
Mathematics (EYFS/KS1)
Counting, patterns, shapes, spatial reasoning and measurement
Physical Development (EYFS)
Fine motor skills through construction and manipulation of small components
Design & Technology (KS1)
Designing and making; building structures; exploring mechanisms
Careers Framework
Gatsby Benchmark Alignment
This workshop can contribute to the following Gatsby Benchmarks within a school's wider careers programme.
Linking Curriculum Learning to Careers
Introduces young children to engineering and technology concepts through play, building early awareness of STEM careers and what engineers do.
Benchmark 5 applies only where an employer or employee takes part in two-way interaction with pupils and the encounter includes reflection. Partner branding or a themed activity alone does not meet that benchmark.
The Gatsby Benchmarks are the national framework for good careers guidance and are referenced in statutory guidance for schools in England.
Learning Outcomes
What Students Will Achieve
- Design and build train tracks with bridges, tunnels, and stations
- Understand basic cause-and-effect relationships through train movement
- Solve simple engineering challenges such as building a bridge that holds weight
- Work collaboratively in small teams to plan and construct
- Develop fine motor skills through Duplo construction
- Explore early concepts of sequencing and spatial reasoning
In the Classroom
Workshop in Action
Inclusivity & SENDSupporting Every Learner
Our instructors have extensive experience working across different school environments, including mainstream, SEND, SEMH, alternative provision, pupil referral units, and special schools. Every activity is scaffolded and differentiated so that all learners can access the content, experience success, and develop confidence. We use adaptive teaching strategies, manage cognitive load carefully, and provide visual supports and learning mats. Schools can share specific needs in advance so we can plan accordingly. Early Engineers Express activities are play-based and multi-sensory, using familiar Duplo train sets that children naturally engage with. The construction-based approach is naturally accessible to a wide range of learners including those in the earliest stages of development.
Group sizes: Up to 30 pupils per session and up to 120 pupils across the four-session Taster format.
Gifted & TalentedStretch and Challenge for High-Ability Learners
Workshop data identifies extension activities where they are available. Schools can share the cohort profile in advance so the instructor can discuss suitable challenge, grouping and adjustments for the booked format.
- Tiered challenges allow students to progress at their own pace, from guided tasks to independent problem-solving
- Higher-order thinking through debugging, optimisation, and creative design challenges
- Competition pathways: workshops build skills relevant to FIRST LEGO League, Raspberry Pi competitions, Cyber Discovery, and CREST Awards
- Career connections: students discover how workshop skills translate into real engineering, computing, and science careers
Schools can share information about gifted and talented cohorts in advance so our instructors can prepare targeted extension activities.
Session Structure
Typical Workshop Day
Based on the Standard Experience format: 3 sessions of 90 minutes each. Exact times and breaks are agreed with the school.
| Stage | Activity |
|---|---|
| Before Session 1 | Hyett Education arrives and sets up the specialist workshop equipment in the space prepared by the school |
| Session 1 (90 minutes) | Class group 1 (up to 30 pupils) |
| Between Sessions 1 and 2 | Changeover or break, as agreed with the school |
| Session 2 (90 minutes) | Class group 2 (up to 30 pupils) |
| Between Sessions 2 and 3 | Changeover or break, as agreed with the school |
| Session 3 (90 minutes) | Class group 3 (up to 30 pupils) |
| After Session 3 | Hyett Education packs down its workshop equipment; the school retains its normal site and pupil-supervision duties |
Workshop Formats
Choose Your Format
Choose the format that suits your school timetable. All formats include full setup and packdown by our team.
In-Depth Experience
2 hours per session
Extended exploration for deeper engagement with multiple build challenges
Standard Experience
90 minutes per session
Three sessions reaching more students
Taster Experience
60 minutes per session
Short introductions for maximum reach
Note: Up to 30 pupils per session and up to 120 pupils across the four-session Taster format.
School Reviews
What Schools Say
This was perfect for the Early Years as we were able to share and take turns, work as a team and challenge ourselves. The timings were spot on and the children were all completely engaged. Antony had complete control of the children, reading a lovely story and setting up real life situations. Loved the moving trains and the coding blocks were a highlight.
Related Workshops
You Might Also Like
Beginner STEMbotics: Robotics & Coding
Inclusive robotics and coding workshop for KS1 and KS2 using LEGO Spike Essentials and LEGO WeDo 2.0. Children code with icon blocks or word blocks, and no reading ability is required.
View workshopIntermediate STEMbotics: Robotics & Coding
Intermediate robotics workshop for KS2 to KS3. Block-based programming with LEGO Spike Prime and EV3, advanced robot builds, sensors, and challenge mats.
View workshopAdvanced STEMbotics: Python Robotics
Advanced text-based Python robotics for KS3 to KS5 using LEGO Spike Prime. Real-world engineering applications with up to 30 students per session.
View workshop