The CIOB Leeds, York and Sheffield Hub hosted a Student Challenge in conjunction with Sheffield Hallam University. Thirty students from Sheffield City College and West Notts College attended, all studying Level 3 Building and Construction courses.
The brief set was around the real-life redevelopment of the university’s Heartspace Atrium.
This was a technically challenging project due to the lack of space – the atrium is a main access way. The students were encouraged to consider how to ensure the space stayed functional and the difficulties in getting materials and machinery into the site.
They presented their ideas for the redevelopment to a panel including: John McNamara, project manager at SHU; Jon Hayward, architect from Castle Owen, working on the project; and Andrew Nortcliffe, chair of CIOB Sheffield Hub.
Prizes were awarded for the Best Team – Archie Lewis, Joseph Riley, Holly Seals and Sumanjit Johal from West Notts College; Best Girl – Sumanjit Johal from West Notts College; and Best Boy – Shea Brennan from Sheffield City College.
There was also a fun building challenge, building the tallest tower from the fewest materials, using spaghetti and marshmallows.
The day provided an opportunity for students to work with professionals from a range of disciplines across construction from Engie and CIOB Sheffield Hub – and all thoroughly enjoyed themselves.