Pupils from Bishop Wordsworth’s School in Salisbury will have a unique opportunity to build their own bridge, thanks to the Institution of Civil Engineers’ Bridge to Schools project.
On 12th July, year 8 students will be building a 15-metre long, 3 metres high bridge, which they will all be able to walk across when completed. Year 5 students from feeder schools Pitton Church of England Primary School and St Osmund’s Catholic Primary School will have their chance to build the bridge on 13th July, helped by sixth form students from Bishop Wordsworth’s School.
Teacher Phil Copley who helped organise the project said: “We are very pleased that our Year 8's will have the chance to work with professional engineers from ICE in such a hands-on way. They will be finding out about some of the challenges engineers face when building bridges. This is an excellent way to raise awareness and get students thinking seriously about a future in engineering.
“The school plays host to our local ICE’s monthly meetings which are organised by a former student, Dan Heath. We are grateful to Dan and our local ICE for giving current students this opportunity.”
The bridge is a miniature copycat design of the second Severn Crossing made from plywood and aluminium.
The project, which has been designed by ICE, travels around schools across the UK giving students aged 9 upwards the opportunity to experience civil engineering for themselves.
Students consider all aspects of the project, from why bridges are needed, planning and materials, to construction and health and safety.
Regional Director for ICE South West, Trish Johnson said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for pupils to see how big projects are put together. This is the first time Bridge to Schools has come to the South West. We want the students to see how exciting a career in civil engineering can be.
“It is not just about core skills. They have to listen, focus and work together. We want to build confidence and really add to their learning, but most importantly, we want them to have fun.”
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