Black Isle Schools Build Bridges (04/06/07)

On Friday (1 June) pupils from four Black Isle Primary Schools met up at Resolis School to build a 15 metre cable-stayed model bridge.  Working under the supervision of volunteer Civil Engineer John McPartlin, pupils built the free standing bridge and then tested their handy work and its strength by walking across it.

The event was part of an ongoing scheme promoted by the institution of Civil Engineers to give young people an early insight into the challenges of Civil Engineering while having some fun at the same time.  It is one of many exciting and diverse activities offering as part of the Highland Promise project which gives young people the chance to celebrate their culture during Highland 2007.

The bridge building event was very apt as not only is it the Highland Year of Culture, but 2007 also marks the 250th anniversary of the birth of Thomas Telford, the famous Civil Engineer who built hundreds of roads and bridges in the Highlands.

Taking part were P6 and P7 pupils from Resolis, Culbokie, Munlochy and North Kessock Schools.  Teaching staff were delighted with how well the pupils worked together to problem solve.  Everyone involved felt that it was an ideal way of introducing the whole topic of civil engineering and it is hoped that pupils will now have an appreciation for the skills needed in engineering projects.
 
ENDS