Longridge hosts the Institute of Civil Engineers' Bridges to School Challenge
Around 270 youngsters recently enjoyed a week of activities led by ICE North East and ICE Scotland. The participating children, from different schools and youth groups, were invited to attend sessions over five days, hosted by Longridge.
Pupils from P6 and P7 in Scotland and youngsters from Year 6 in England, supervised and assisted by volunteer Civil Engineers, participated in the construction of a 15m long cable stayed bridge using a special kit and then walked across it to show the strength of the construction. They also built model ‘truss' bridges using nuts, bolts and paper tubes before loading them with weights and observing their behaviour under this load.
Mr Tim Manning, Headmaster of Longridge Towers School said: "The children have really enjoyed the building exercises and have definitely benefitted from these hands-on sessions. We are very proud to be hosting the event in partnership with ICE again this year and hope that all the children have gained a valuable fuller understanding of Civil Engineering whilst working together on this spectacular construction project."
The schools and groups who attended the sessions were Spittal Scout Group, Norham and Berwick Scouts, Swinton School, Rock School, Longridge Towers School, Tweedmouth Middle School, Coldingham School, Berwick Guides, Eyemouth Scouts, Coldstream Guides, Seahouses Middle School, Belford Middle School and Coldstream School.
ICE Vice President David Balmforth, who attended Thursday afternoon's session, said: "The scheme helps to promote the profession among school-age children and get them interested in construction. Over five days around 270 children took part in the bridge building activities, supported by the Institution of Civil Engineers, to raise awareness of all areas of construction.
"It's great to see children from both sides of the borders working together with ICE North East and ICE Scotland. The scheme is a great way for youngsters to learn about all aspects of construction, but to also to have fun whilst doing it."
The cable stayed bridge kit was transported by George Leslie Ltd, and Longridge Towers School provided transportation for schools as required. Bear Scotland and Borders Council, provided volunteers to supervise the activities.
The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) is one of the pre-eminent engineering institutions in the world. Established as a learned society in 1818, it has 80,000 members and provides a voice for civil engineering, continuing professional development and promoting best practice throughout the industry.
Previous | News index | Next