Outstanding Event services
Staff Only STEM and Education
Engineering Potential. Educating for Success.
★★★★★
What We Do
Staff Only STEM and Education provides young adults and school children with meaningful, hands-on experiences that bring rail and engineering careers to life. Using the specialist facilities at Staff Only Training and Staff Only Services—including our live-simulation railway environment, OHL training systems, and practical engineering workshops—we give learners a real insight into the world of rail infrastructure, safety, and technical careers.
Through engaging, practical activities, students develop confidence, curiosity, and an early understanding of what it means to work safely and professionally on the railway. Our mission is to empower the next generation by opening doors to STEM pathways, showcasing real engineering in action, and helping young people discover their potential.
As the centre is outdoors, the full immersive experience is available as you would find working on a live operational railway.
Our Values
Inclusion – We create opportunities for every individual to succeed, valuing neurodiversity and supporting those who may have been overlooked elsewhere.
Opportunity – We provide meaningful, hands-on experiences that help young people build confidence, skills, and clear pathways into employment.
Safety – We uphold the highest safety standards in all training and work environments, ensuring learners understand and respect safe working practices.
Integrity – We act with honesty, professionalism, and accountability in everything we do.
Quality – We deliver reliable, high-standard outputs that meet the expectations of the industries we support.
Growth – We promote learning, development, and continuous improvement for both our participants and our organisation.
Collaboration – We work closely with partners, employers, and communities to create meaningful outcomes and shared success.
Frequently Asked Questions
Feel free to contact us should your question not be answered below
What is the maximum number of attendees ?
For practical hands on training, we recommend that the group size doesn’t exceed 15. We split the group and circulate the learners around the various activities. There is an opportunity to have a morning and an afternoon session as there is a classroom on site where you can split the day with theory and practical exercises. The number could then rise to 30.
Where is the training centre located?
Our Head Office is in Nantwich and the full size railway training span is located to the East of Congleton. Access is by road though we can arrange minibus transfers from local railway stations e.g. Crewe, Sandbach, Congleton, Macclesfield and Holmes Chapel.
What age group is the centre suitable for?
We recommend that the youngest learners are from the age of 14. This is due to the physical nature of the activities e.g. applying earths to the electrical overhead equipment (non energised!), lifting railway track etc. Where practicable we make adjustments to suit individual requirements.
Is parking available at the training centre?
Yes, we have a parking adjacent to the classroom, the largest size of vehicle would be a long wheel base minibus. Should you wish to arrive in a coach we would need to discuss this on an individual basis.
Is there catering available on site or in the local vicinity?
There is no local food stores or takeaways however we have a kitchen mess facility on site for learners to eat a packed lunch. Food such as pizzas or catering vans can be arranged with prior notice.
Is there a cost?
We do have to make a charge due to our staff and overhead costs. The fee is calculated on the basis of the centre hire then, what additional extras you require e.g. catering etc. Please use the contact form to allow us to discuss your requirements. For Schools, Colleges and STEM activities we discount the hire of the centre.