Year 12 pupils from Thomas Telford University Technical College (TTUTC) have got their future careers on the right track after they designed their very own Metro extension as part of a project led by the Midland Metro Alliance. (Whether their plans included working out how delayed the project could be isn’t clear!) They put their studies to the test and demonstrated their technical and design skills during the three month employer project which involved them designing a tramway for the city environment.
After presenting their work, staff from the Midland Metro Alliance judged the groups on various aspects of their design, including the route, sustainability and cost considerations. This is the third time the Alliance has delivered the programme at the Wolverhampton School and this year’s judging panel included two former TTUTC pupils, Finn Brittle and Evans Addae, who are now completing a level six apprenticeship in surveying at the University of Wolverhampton and are employed by the Alliance.
Simon Maxfield, Vice Principal at TTUTC, said: “Employer projects such as these are a fantastic way for students to develop their creative and professional skills. They had great fun coming up with their own tramway design and I would like to thank the Midland Metro Alliance for their support. Working with employers really helps students to grow, both in knowledge and confidence. It was also a pleasure to welcome Finn and Evans back to the school who helped inspire their peers by showing them what can be achieved with hard work and dedication.”
Rose Rees, Head of Engagement at the Alliance, said: “It was fantastic to be a part of such an important project and I was inspired by the talent these young students displayed. It was tough for the judges to choose a winner due to the high quality of the presentations. We were all blown away by their enthusiasm. The extent of their effort and passion reinforces why it is so important for employers to engage with schools.”