SIXTH-formers from Harlington School were invited by Network Rail to visit the Crossrail construction site at West Drayton station yesterday (Thursday).

They found out about a range of careers in the building industry by designing, project managing and constructing a crane using building blocks.

The students also heard talks from Network Rail and Taylor Woodrow, its contractor, about working on the railways.

David White, Senior Programme Manager at Network Rail, said: “We want to inspire and attract the next generation of railway workers.

“We hope the students found their visit informative and a useful exercise as they begin to shape their futures.”

Crossrail is Europe’s largest construction project which, when complete, will run from Berkshire to Essex. It will comprise 40 stations, 10 of which will be brand new.

The first Crossrail services through Central London will start in late 2018, with the first service from West Drayton starting from the end of 2019.

Improvements at West Drayton station include:

• A covered walkway and a footbridge with new lifts and stairs to platforms 2/3 and 4/5

• Extending the platforms to accommodate the longer Crossrail trains

• New platform 5

• Electrifying the line through West Drayton for faster and quieter services.

The station will remain open throughout the work.