Students bring school theatre vision to life
Creative Ripon Grammar School students impressed industry experts with innovative ideas for the school’s future. See our budding engineers and architects in action and explore some of their designs in our photo gallery below
ENTERPRISING young architects and engineers impressed industry professionals as they took on the challenge of bringing Ripon Grammar School’s next landmark building to life.
Working in teams, Year 8 pupils were tasked with designing a new theatre and assembly hall, incorporating cutting-edge sustainable technology into their plans.
They spent two days researching, designing and costing their proposals, with the aim of creating the most innovative, practical and environmentally responsible solution.
Students took on specialist roles including project manager, architect, civil engineer, finance manager and sustainability lead.
At the end of the project, each group presented its ideas to a panel of judges, showcasing a detailed 3D model alongside a five-minute pitch.
In a Dragons’ Den-style session, students fielded questions from the judging panel, which included architects Graham Boyce and John Cotterill, former Ripon Grammar School students Bella Weston and Evie Harry - now studying architecture and sustainability-related subjects at university - as well as headmaster Jonathan Webb and STEM co-ordinator Claire Gallagher, who organised the challenge.
The project is designed to give pupils a real-world insight into business and engineering, while introducing them to a variety of future career pathways.
Their imaginative designs featured a range of eco-friendly solutions, from solar energy systems and rainwater recycling to carbon reduction initiatives and living walls filled with greenery.
Miss Gallagher praised the students for their commitment and creativity throughout the challenge.
“The teams embraced the project with enthusiasm and determination from the outset. With a great deal to accomplish in a limited time, they worked exceptionally well together, sharing responsibilities and supporting one another to bring their ideas to life. The standard of the presentations and models was extremely impressive, demonstrating both creativity and strong teamwork,” she said.
Ripon Grammar School, 16 Clotherholme Road, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 2DG
Tel: 01765 602 647
E: admin@ripongrammar.com
