Motor Vehicle Students Drive Innovation with Hands-On Learning Projects

Creativity and innovation are in full gear at Bradford College, where our 14–16 Motor Vehicle students have turned an everyday challenge into an exciting opportunity for learning and teamwork.

During practical sessions, students found themselves drawn to a fully intact car in the workshop, a model that, while inspiring, often proved more distracting than productive. That’s when an inventive idea was sparked: why not build our own training jigs from real cars?

By carefully modifying existing vehicles, the students and staff created purpose-built training rigs that allow them to complete all essential motor vehicle tasks, from component removal and fitting to fault diagnosis, without the distractions of a fully working car.

“The idea was to help students stay focused on the skills they need to master,” explained their tutor. “By breaking the car down into smaller, more functional learning stations, they can engage with the mechanical side directly, it’s hands-on, creative, and focused.”

The students have already made impressive progress. Not only did they start painting and personalising the new jigs, but they also transformed another car into something truly unique, a giant planter, blending engineering with environmental creativity.

“This project has really captured their enthusiasm,” the tutor added. “They’re not just learning about vehicles; they’re learning about teamwork, design, and problem-solving, all while putting their own stamp on the workshop.”

These projects mark a fresh direction for Bradford College’s 14–16 students, who continue to showcase innovation, skill, and pride in their work. With every bolt tightened and brushstroke added, they’re proving that education doesn’t just happen in the classroom, it happens when curiosity meets creativity.