A group of young scholars has enjoyed a day of first-hand engineering experience as part of their sponsorship by a medieval charity.
Involving visits to two heritage engineering sites, the event was arranged for six of the Rochester Bridge Trust’s Arkwright, Harriott and Telford Engineering Scholars.
Coming from a range of educational backgrounds, all the students are studying subjects which can lead to a career in civil engineering.
The day began with a visit to The Old Brook Pumping Station in Chatham, where the group got to see the pumping machines in action and learn about their significance for the town. Other working exhibits include a 19th century printing press and an old diesel roller that was bought by the Rochester Corporation in 1925 and which – after a six-year restoration programme – is still in use today.
The six-formers then moved on to the Royal Engineers Museum in Gillingham, which they explored after taking part in a series of bridge building activities designed to challenge their problem-solving abilities and develop their teamworking skills.
James Miller, Education Officer at the Trust, said: “When it comes to learning, the lessons of the classroom are important for gaining a theoretical understanding of a subject, but nothing beats real-world experience for appreciating the practical application of that learning.
“This trip was an opportunity for the scholars to apply their learning in an enjoyable setting, while making connections with each other and with the civil engineers who joined us for the visit.
“We were really pleased to see how well they took to the experience and worked with each other.”
For more information about the engineering scholars, visit their profile pages here.
