Challenge builds up confidence

A group of Forest View High School students have been thrown into the real world of building after they entered the BCITO Build Ability Challenge.

For the first time in its history, the Tokoroa school will be represented in the competition.

The five year 13 students Vince Samson, Luther Ngawaka, Neil Wilkinson, Caleb Stevens and Jesse Saunders have been set the task to design and build a playhouse.

The group is among 28 others in country in the running for a $1000 cash prize towards their school technology department.

The challenge’s build phase runs until August 14, before judging and voting for the People’s Choice Award.

They have completed their design and have chosen to build a fire house which will be donated to a local kindergarten, Ngawaka said.

It will be made out of locally sourced timber and the students are restricted to 2.2m by 1.8m and a maximum height of 3.5m.

So far it’s been a completely different experience compared to class projects like outdoor furniture.

‘‘[It’s been] challenging and different . . . we’re actually dealing with walls and foundations.’’

As part of the challenge, they also have to complete a timeline and a public blog.

They’ve had a sneak peak at their competitors through the blogs and are confident with their chances.

‘‘I reckon we’ve got an all right chance if we keep our mind on the job.’’

Head of Graphics and Technology, Andy MacDonald, will oversee the students’ work to make sure they are on track.

‘‘It’s pretty hard to step back sometimes . . . it’s very much their project.’’

He said the challenge is teaching them about project management which is what they may face if they chose to enter the industry.

BCITO chief executive Ruma Karaitiana said the challenge is a partnership with schools to actively encourage young people to consider a career in the building and construction industry.