As part of the social value commitment within our contract with Bury Council, Econ recently visited three local primary schools to give pupils a fun and engaging introduction to the world of winter maintenance, engineering and manufacturing.
Across two days, the team delivered interactive careers sessions designed to show how gritters help keep communities moving during the winter months. The visits combined learning, hands-on experiences and a chance for pupils to meet a very special guest, Goldie the Gritter.
Each session lasted around 90 minutes and included a short presentation introducing Econ, the engineering and manufacturing behind gritters, and the important role they play in keeping roads safe and operational during severe weather. Pupils also watched a short film about winter maintenance before heading outside for the highlight of the visit, getting up close to Goldie the Gritter and learning how the vehicle operates.
To round off the sessions, pupils took part in a colouring competition, with Econ merchandise awarded as prizes, giving them something to remember the visit by.
The school visits took place at Butterstile Primary School, Greenhill Primary School and Chantlers Primary School. Over the two days, 173 pupils took part in the sessions, gaining an insight into how engineering, manufacturing and winter maintenance all play a role in supporting their local community.
Teachers and pupils at Chantlers Primary School particularly enjoyed the visit. One teacher commented:
“The children absolutely loved meeting Goldie and learning about how gritters work. It was such a brilliant way to bring engineering to life and show them how the vehicles they see on the roads actually help keep people safe during winter.”
Pupils were equally enthusiastic about the experience. One said:
“My favourite part was seeing the gritter up close and learning how it spreads the salt. I didn’t realise how important they are when it snows.”
The visits also highlight Econ’s ongoing partnership with Bury Council, where we currently support the borough’s winter maintenance fleet with four brand-new 6m³ gritters. These vehicles help ensure Bury’s road network remains safe and accessible during winter conditions.
By taking Goldie the Gritter into local schools, the team hopes to inspire curiosity about engineering careers while helping young people understand the important work that goes on behind the scenes to keep roads moving during the winter months.