I think Hornby Playtrains are excellent and congratulate everyone who came up with the idea. I’m putting an idea forward that there is a missing gap in the market, High School kids, 11-14 year olds. I’m wondering if Hornby and other industry manufacturers are missing out a core youth section which will be your customers of the future. Lego have a very successful relationship promoting Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM subjects) via organisations such as the IET. With interest in the railway subject at a new high in this age group thanks to social media influencers such as Francis Bourgeois, there is a huge missing age gap with products and clubs to engage young teenagers in STEM subjects. Many of them start the subjects in earnest when they are around 11 and 12 and this is the time many will pick up a lifelong interest which leads to a career. I teach Electrical Installation to ages 16+ at college and work with youth groups. There has never been a bigger interest in the subject amongst the young due to the shift towards zero emissions and educational trends towards practical skills. Model railway and slot car technology is in the biggest position to start kids along this path, the analogue and digital electrical technologies are the same as in the real world but many are simply put off by the significant costs of entry into this hobby and the current strain on family finances. Is it now time to create an affordable product range or club/educational arena where kids can get involved and get hands on experience. I recently showed kids how an electric motor works simply by using a train on a track. Schools are crying out for this kind of support from manufacturers. Big things start from small beginnings.
