Construction Students’ ‘BAD’ Challenge
Construction students at Bucks UTC are being put to the test in an ambitious project to build a fully functional bungalow within 48 hours. The ‘Build a Dwelling (BAD) Challenge’ will gather evidence to support specific parts of the students’ BTEC in Construction and the Built Environment qualification, where they are required to specify, plan and implement a project. The build will take place in the dedicated construction workspace at the UTC. Potential students and community groups are also invited to be involved throughout the 48-hour task starting at 1600 on Tuesday 5 July.
Under the expert guidance of the UTC’s employer partners including a leading UK homebuilder, Taylor Wimpey, the Year 12 students will work in eight hour shifts to complete an 8m x 5m timber frame home. Very precise planning, pre-fabrication of some elements of the building and keeping the ‘wet’ trades such as plastering to a minimum, will all help to meet the 48 hour goal. Other local companies such as Mansi Construction, Double Glazing Direct, Grant & Stone, ASW Scaffolding and Aylesbury Youth Action are also lending their support through supplying materials and even making refreshments.
Simon Cook, Associate Production Director for Taylor Wimpey Oxfordshire, said: “We’ve been working with the students to improve their practical skills and give a good insight into the construction industry through their course work, but this project will really challenge them on a different level. They will be assessed on their practical skills as well as time management, teamwork and monitoring health and safety at every stage of the build process.”
The structure of the bungalow has been carefully designed to ensure it is structurally sound – the UTC’s Computing students are planning a video recording of the build process and are setting up a live web feed to allow other students and project supporters to watch the build in real time. In addition, Taylor Wimpey’s site managers will support the students by overseeing the work and ensuring the application of the appropriate health and safety regulations.
Nicholas Han, Head of Construction at Bucks UTC added: “This will be a fantastic experience for these students not only on a very ‘real’ project, but also exposure to a team of specialists in the industry. We are all very excited and are looking forward to getting started.”
Bucks UTC is holding its next open event on Thursday 12 May at 1630 where you can hear more about the BAD Challenge. To register visit www.bucksutc.co.uk.