Budding engineers have built bridges at Bishop Auckland College as part of a nationwide celebration of science and technology.
Nearly 300 Year 9 and 10 students from 11 schools across the county have been enjoying the appliance of science in hands-on workshops with local employers at the College.The activities included the erection of a 55 foot long suspension bridge – complete with a timber walkway and metal struts, building brick walls and a Q&A with local employers taking part who have included Ebac, Thorn Lighting, NEPIC, Balfour Beatty, Livin and Mears as well as South Durham Engineering and Manufacturing Forum.
Ebac Managing Director Pamela Petty said: “I’m passionate about engineering and Ebac is pleased to support the College’s Engineering and Construction Week. I’m here to showcase what’s fantastic about our industry and hopefully it will offer the kids an alternative career choice.”
Rebecca Meale, employed by Mears managing maintenance work on its client Livin’s social housing, has been leading some of the group activities. The 30-year-old mother-of-two is a former student who qualified in childcare but moved into property maintenance by chance when her landlord spotted the quality of her own DIY.
Rebecca said: “We have been trying to show the students what to expect from a construction or engineering apprenticeship. They have shown quite a lot of enthusiasm and have been eager to work together – it has really brought them out of their shells. I would recommend giving young people the chance to experience a taste of apprenticeships as early as possible. Once you have sparked that interest it drives them to succeed.”
Teacher Andrew Black of King James Academy, Bishop Auckland, (back far left) with Year 10 students, Rebecca Meale of Mears (front middle left) and Pamela Petty of Ebac (front middle right) at the engineering event at Bishop Auckland College.
