Students from UTC Warrington have been using their engineering skills to help communities in Dubai, albeit virtually, as part of a week of work experience.
The students, who study engineering and construction at the Dallam Lane technical college, were tasked with designing and planning the construction of the ‘Esteem Pavillion’ – a sustainable building to teach the local community how to look after their planet.
Organisations, including Balfour Beatty, Herriott Watt University and Emirates Green Building Council, have been working with the UTC students throughout the week to find engineering solutions to design and plan the new construction. The students had to understand the challenges of climate change and the way that the Dubai climate changes the way that communities work.
UTC Warrington, which specialises in construction and civil engineering, partnered with Design…Engineer…Construct (DEC) to provide this opportunity to their students. The purpose being to provide students with a week of work experience and engagement with industry partners during the most challenging of circumstances.
Nicola Graham, Teacher of Engineering at the UTC, said that the opportunity demonstrates that employer partners are still enthusiastic about shaping the young students.
She said: “Partnering with DEC and other industry specialists to provide a virtual work experience is really important for us and our students. The lockdown situation has meant placements have been postponed, but that hasn’t stopped our students from taking part in a unique week-long task that has allowed them to develop professional and technical skills, alongside earning official accreditation for their efforts.”
“For those students who have taken part in this fantastic opportunity, not only have they gained detailed insight into real world projects, they have also worked as teams and with industry professionals to put their engineering skills and knowledge to good use. They will stand out from the crowd with this experience under their belt.”
The University Technical College students will be awarded an Industrial Cadets Silver Award to add to their CV and to show future employers.
Harley Gallop, Year 10 student at the UTC, took part in programme.
He said: “I have gained lots of insight into engineering throughout this week. I have worked with employers from the industry to come up with the designs for the project in Dubai. The opportunity exceeded my expectations and has allowed me to learn new skills by bringing knowledge from all of my subjects into this project.”
“Thank you to the UTC Warrington staff for organising this virtual style of work experience that will provide me with new experiences for my professional development.”
