A rail safety programme for 3-16s that encourages young people to stay Switched On around the railway
Through a range of age targeted films, interactive games and classroom activities, Switched On teaches pupils to be aware of risky behaviour and develop hazard-spotting skills.
Resource spotlight
We’ve added a number of new resources across our programme. Check them out in each age range and on the supporting materials page, which now includes new recommended teacher learning pathways through the Switched On content.
Level crossings come in different shapes, sizes and with different safety measures that we all need to be aware of. This interactive resource is designed to get students clued up on how to stay safe at this important part of the railway environment.
An audio story involving a young boy called Oliver and his friends, who have an important rail safety decision to make. This resource addresses the dangers of trespassing on the train tracks, including the potential for electrified ‘live’ rail. It is followed by a comprehension and discussion activity.
The fate of a group of friends is now in your class’ hands. Watch four short scenario films where the action is paused before a “crunch” moment. Can your pupils help them make a Switched On decision to ensure the safety of the group?
Explore animated scenarios and help Suzi and her friends decide what to do to keep them safe around the railway! This includes a new scenario where Suzi drops an item on the track.
Switched On on-demand videos
Click below to access our on-demand videos and worksheets, suitable for all ages 3-16 years-old.
From special journeys to everyday commutes, the rail network helps get us where we need to be.
Switched On is a suite of curriculum linked, age targeted resources covering three key age groups: 3-6, 7-11 and 12-16. With more than 13,000 trespass incidents a year, the programme explores the entire rail environment – from level crossings to tracks – and teaches students how to be switched on to the risks it can pose.
3-6 years
Switched On Travels with Suzi
Pupils can join Suzi on her favourite trip to the nature reserve by following her special map, whilst earning up to six badges on their journey to become Switched On! The activities are flexible; pick and choose the badge(s) you’d like to complete. Each activity contains valuable lessons and are a mix of animation, supporting worksheets and slides.
7-11 years
Switched On for every journey
With a focus on developing good judgement and decision-making skills, Switched On for every journey not only asks children to identify potential dangers on their own journeys but to also spot risky behaviours in others. Using the interactive map to explore each resource, pupils are in put in charge of their own learning journey, with flexible activities from live action films to supporting worksheets and slides.
12-16 years
Living Switched On
Young people often make responsible choices around the tracks but there can be times when their decision making can be compromised. Living Switched On explores a range of themes such peer pressure, the perils of group mindset and the impact of decisions. Activities are flexible and can be completed as a class or individually, from interactive games to hard-hitting films.
Stay safe with Thomas
Network Rail and Thomas the Tank Engine have joined together to help young children learn about staying safe around the railway. Follow Thomas on an exciting adventure around tracks, stations and level crossings as he learns how to behave around the railway.