DT students visit Mini Factory in Oxford

Oakham’s Sixth Form DT students gained a unique insight into the world of automotive manufacturing during a visit to the Mini Factory in Oxford.

Despite the dull, wet day, the spirits of our Upper School students were brightened by the fascinating tour of the Mini Plant and museum. This visit is part of our ongoing efforts to provide practical learning experiences through our Connected Curriculum that complement classroom education.

The highlight of the visit was the guided tour of the production line. Pupils observed the automated process of robots assembling parts for the car body and chassis, including both closed cell and open cell production. They were particularly impressed by the quality control processes, learning about the meticulous painting process, and witnessing the intricacies of final assembly to include sequencing and just in time production, with one Mini coming off the production line every 67 seconds.

Throughout the tour, students had the opportunity to ask questions and interact with the guide, gaining valuable insights into the engineering and design principles that underpin the automotive industry. This experience not only enhanced their understanding of manufacturing processes but also inspired many to consider careers in design, engineering and technology.

One of the pupils, shared his thoughts on the visit: “It was incredible to see how much work goes into making each car. The technology and teamwork involved are truly impressive. This trip has definitely sparked my interest in pursuing a career in engineering.”

Head of Design Technology Tim Weston said: “The visit to the Mini Factory was not only educational but also a memorable experience for our pupils. It underscored the importance of hands-on learning and real-world applications of classroom knowledge.

“We are grateful to the Mini Factory team for their hospitality and for providing our students with such an enriching experience.”

Read more about how DT at Oakham offers diverse learning opportunities that prepare our students for the future.