North Lanarkshire pupils showcase build, design and enterprise talents at Next Gen Summit

High school pupils from across North Lanarkshire recently had the chance to delve into sustainable construction practices, gain industry knowledge, and cultivate skills for a more eco-friendly future at the UK’s BE-ST Fest 24 Next Gen Summit. Organised by Built Environment – Smarter Transformation (BE-ST) and North Lanarkshire Council’s NL Academies team, this educational initiative involved nearly 200 S1 pupils in hands-on experiences focusing on sustainable design. The summit, held at BE-ST’s innovation campus in the Hamilton Technology Park, featured the ‘Class of Your Own’ Eco School Project, merging the Design, Engineer, Construct curriculum with an emphasis on sustainability.

During the event, students collaborated in teams, assuming roles such as surveyor, director, and architect to conceptualise environmentally conscious and energy-efficient school structures. BE-ST provided practical elements to inspire the pupils’ creativity, including workshops on sustainable materials, marketing, and engineering. The day also comprised visits to various workstations showcasing materials, designs, and surveying plots, with feedback from industry experts from BE-ST.

Provost Kenneth Duffy and Councillor Andrew Duffy-Lawson, along with teachers from participating schools, accompanied the pupils. Provost Duffy commended the students’ enthusiasm and talent in addressing sustainability challenges with creativity. Judging panels evaluated each team’s application of sustainable practices.

Councillor Duffy-Lawson highlighted the council’s dedication to nurturing a skilled future workforce and praised BE-ST’s contributions in providing an innovative learning experience. Kirsty Duncan, Associate Director of Skills Infrastructure at BE-ST, expressed excitement about inspiring the younger generation regarding sustainable construction and a net-zero carbon built environment. The Next Gen Summit aimed to instil enthusiasm in students for careers in sustainable construction, fostering a generation prepared to address climate challenges.

In conclusion, the Next Gen Summit not only empowered students to explore sustainable design but also showcased the importance of education in shaping environmentally conscious professionals for the future of construction.

Insights and Summary:
The BE-ST Fest 24 Next Gen Summit in North Lanarkshire served as a platform for high school students to engage in sustainable construction practices and develop skills for a greener future. By immersing themselves in real-world roles and practical workshops, the pupils not only gained industry insights but also learned the significance of sustainability in built environments. Initiatives like these play a crucial role in inspiring the next generation to pursue careers that contribute towards a more environmentally friendly society.