School pupils gain construction insight

School pupils gain construction insight
Pupils at Graeme High School

Senior pupils from Graeme High School are building up links with Forth Valley College by taking part in Computer Aided Architectural Design (CAD) classes at the Falkirk Campus.

The specifically designed short programme was devised by the Forth Valley College Technology team and Graeme High School Design and Technology teacher Keiron Harris, after introductions were made through the Helix Project.

A group of 12 fifth and sixth year pupils recently completed four sessions with FVC Construction Department lecturers. The group worked closely with lecturers Stuart Taylor in Architectural Conventions, Stephen Stirrat in 2D CAD and Ian McRae in 3D CAD introducing programmes such as Revit and BIM.

Graeme High School Design and Technology teacher Keiron Harris, said: “This has been a fantastic experience for our pupils to gain an insight into industry practices as well as having the opportunity to utilise and build on the skills they have learned at school. Our partnership with FVC has been extremely worthwhile, with many now considering careers in construction, engineering and architecture.”

Charles Cameron, Curriculum Manager from the FVC Department of Construction, said: “This link with Graeme High School has gone very well. All my the lecturers involved were very impressed with how quickly the pupils have picked up the CAD skills and were also very happy and encouraged with their levels of interest and commitment to the sessions. We hope we can build on this link with Graeme High School in the future.”