Inspiring the next generation of civil engineers
The Bridges to Schools project was successfully launched in the North East in 2012. The aim of Bridges to Schools is to make children more aware of the work of civil engineers and their contribution to society and to inspire and motivate younger students to take up a career in science or engineering field. Students will be encouraged to improve their knowledge in Physics, Maths and other related subjects.
Pupils are able to build, walk across and deconstruct the bridge, learning about bridges, teamwork and civil engineering.
Pauline Vipond, our Bridges to Schools co-ordinator, together with our ICE Ambassadors engaged with more than 3,200 pupils in under-19 activities last year.
Hosting the bridge
The bridge model is available for visits of two - four days. Schools often group together and arrange for one school to host the bridge while pupils from other local schools come to the host school for the experience.
To host the bridge you need to have a gym or hall with a clear length of 19m. It is very important that this space is available, otherwise the bridge will not fit.
>> Download a Bridges to School information brochure
>> View our Bridges to Schools blog
If you are interested in having Bridges to Schools come to your school please contact Education Co-ordinator Pauline Vipond.
Becoming a civil engineering ambassador
Please get in touch if you would like to help out on one of these events as we are always on the lookout for Ambassadors.
As well as something that is personally rewarding and makes a societal contribution, becoming an ambassador can contribute towards a civil engineer's continuing professional development.
Ambassadors within the North East assist regional activities in a variety of different ways including helping with Bridges to Schools, providing expert information on bridges for class projects and speaking to pupils on what a career in civil engineering may bring.
If you would like to help out on one of the events please contact Pauline Vipond rec-northeast@ice.org.uk or for more information see the Education Ambassadors page >>.