Pupils battle it out to craft best bridge

Abridge-building challenge was hosted by the Cross Tay Link Road project team.

Hosted at Bertha Park High School, the event saw 60 S1 and S2 pupils from local secondary schools compete against each other to build the best bridge against a timer.

Schools involved were Bertha Park High School, Blairgowrie High School and St John’s Academy on day one and Perth Academy, Perth High School and Perth Grammar School on day two.

The challenge, which was designed by the Institute of Engineers (Ice) and approved for use by the Cross Tay Link Road team, was won by Perth Academy.

The judges were two members of the CTLR project team – Innes Mackintosh, community benefits manager, and Ronnie Carr.

They looked at factors including fastest time, quality of build, how well the team worked together, how closely they followed the brief and how safe they were while working.

Mr Mackintosh said: “CTLR project team has run this popular and successful initiative in Perth and Kinross for around 18 months, but this is the first time multiple schools have taken part in one large open day.

“In using the Cross Tay Link Road project to inspire the next generation of engineers and construction workers, our aim is to future-proof the industry for years to come.

“The potential to inspire and influence subject choice and career paths is increased, offering longterm gains for the young people involved and the wider engineering and construction industry.”

The event was organised in partnership with the Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) initiative in Tayside.

Morgan Mcleod, employer liaison officer for DYW, said: “The young people have loved the competition between schools and there was a real desire to become the best bridge builders in the area.

“There was such a buzz around the challenge, and it brought everyone together, enhancing teamworking skills, communication skills and so much more. Thanks to BAM UK & Ireland and PKC for yet another amazing event for the young people in our area.”

Councillor Grant Laing, Perth and Kinross Council leader, said: “Meaningful engagement with the next generation of engineers and construction industry workers is a key component of the Cross Tay Link Road project.

“Both Perth and Kinross Council and BAM UK & Ireland recognise their role in ensuring young people throughout Perth and Kinross have access to the opportunities presented by a project of this scale and status.”

Elaine Blair, learning resource coordinator for DYW at Perth High School, said: “The day brought STEM from a classroom idea to a real-world application and Perth High School pupils loved the hands-on aspect of the challenge.

“I think we may have found the next generation of engineers!”

I think we may have found the next generation of engineers

SKILL: Hosted at Bertha Park High School, the event saw 60 S1 and S2 pupils from local secondary schools compete.