Taking the Skills Challenge
Building Studies student Richard Ngxingeweni gives a demonstration of bricklaying techniques to Principal Richard Chambers.
November 2008
Students and staff from Lambeth College demonstrated their building skills this week in a one-day challenge, held as part of the national Colleges Week celebrations.
On Thursday 13 November, MP Kate Hoey, College Principal Richard Chambers and members of the College’s management team joined forces with over 30 students in an attempt to replicate one of London’s most famous landmarks.
The challenge took place at the College’s training site in the heart of Battersea Power station. Students on the College’s award-winning construction course had challenged their teachers and school managers to build a scale model of one of the station’s iconic chimneys.
Student Glynn Harper, studying at the College’s Vauxhall campus, said: “Usually it’s the staff testing us, so this challenge was a chance to turn the tables. We wanted to see if their brickwork was as good as their paperwork!”
Luckily, the students were on hand to help out, and the staff managed to build a scale model classic brick chimney in under an hour.
MP Kate Hoey dropped in to take up the challenge and gets some useful tips from students.
Local MP Kate Hoey who took part in the challenge said: “Colleges like Lambeth are helping over three million people each year build skills and gain experience. Teaching students relevant construction skills, like those provided on these courses, mean that London will have the talent required for major projects like the modernisation of Battersea Power Station and the construction of the Olympic Stadium.”
College principal Richard Chambers said: “This training centre in Battersea Power Station is a good example of how Lambeth College is working with employers throughout London to make sure that our students leave us with the enthusiasm and experience to get the jobs they want.
“I’m always full of admiration and respect for all our students. I’ve really enjoyed the challenge of having a go at ‘building skills’ myself – and having now tried it first hand, I’m prouder than ever of what our students and staff achieve.”
Related news story - College Showcases Expert Construction Skills (2009)
Related news story - Students take Expert Classes at the Power Station (2008)
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