Our year 13 business learners recently had the privilege of teaming up with Transport for London (TfL) to kick off 'The Innovate Challenge.' TfL, responsible for a significant portion of London's transport network, joined forces with our learners to discuss how they could come up with innovative solutions aimed at realising the Mayor's ambitious transport strategy. 

Transport for London's involvement in the city's intricate transport system is nothing short of remarkable, and to begin this session, our learners engaged in a quiz that offered insights into the vast scale and reach of TFL's impact on London. Questions like 'how many buses make up the TfL fleet in 2023?' and 'how many trains are active during peak times?' broadened our learners' perspectives. 

Learner Laura expressed her amazement, noting, "It was amazing to learn how TFL is involved in much more than just trains and buses."  

Following an interactive introduction, learners delved into 'The Innovate Challenge.' The challenge, a group effort of 4-6, requires learners to craft a design concept and present it in a five-minute filmed presentation. 

The heart of this challenge lies in the Mayor's transport strategy, which seeks to make London carbon neutral by 2030. Additionally, the strategy aims to eradicate all fatalities and severe injuries within London's transport system and steer away from a car-centric recovery in the post-pandemic era. 

Our TfL guests shed light on their expectations for this challenge: they are on the lookout for fresh, forward-thinking, and audacious ideas. Learners are encouraged to clearly articulate their innovative concepts, identifying the specific problems they address. Effective teamwork, a profound grasp of the issues their innovation seeks to resolve, and a comprehensive understanding of the technology and engineering involved are all key aspects the students must demonstrate. 

Thanks to Transport for London for affording our learners this thrilling opportunity and visiting to present it in such an exciting way. Beyond the chance to make a meaningful impact on their local area, our learners will leverage this Employer Led Project to bolster their understanding of business dynamics, particularly in Unit 1 of the curriculum, 'Exploring Business: Investigate the role and contribution of innovation and enterprise to business success.'  

This collaboration is not only an educational endeavour but also an invitation to innovate and shape the future of London's transportation landscape.