Carshalton College recently welcomed Phil Parle from the Association of Colleges to lead an engaging workshop on Retrofit Installation for Carpentry, Plumbing, and Construction Multi-Skills students.
As part of the hands-on session, students were challenged to form their own companies and construct a bridge spanning a 48cm gap between two tables, ensuring it could support weight. Adding a strategic element to the exercise, each Lego piece carried a cost, requiring teams to carefully manage resources while building a stable structure.
Students had two opportunities to refine their designs and compete for the most cost-effective solution. The workshop not only tested their technical skills but also encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and budget management.
Outstanding participants were recognised with medals and trophies, with each session crowning a winning company. The event provided an invaluable learning experience, blending practical construction skills with real-world business concepts.
Phil said:
"Just a quick thank you to you and your team for looking after me and for your amazing hospitality. I felt it important and pertinent to express how well behaved, engaged and interested every group were on the day. Please pass on that feedback to all of your construction staff for me, you should be very proud of that, as i am sure you are.
There was not one blemish on the day ( I have also mentioned this to my seniors here at the Association of Colleges) as attitudes and behaviours can be massive barriers to the learning environment.
I hope that your students enjoyed the activity and if you ever wanted me to pop down again in the future I would not hesitate.
You have a very positive atmosphere that seems to be a thread running through your College and it was my pleasure to experience how vibrant and stimulating your College is of which can only give your students a great learning experience."
