PRUDHOE students have written their names into the town’s history books this week.

A group of sixth form engineering students at Prudhoe Community High School put their signatures on the steel girders that will support their new school building.

The teenagers were able to see the progress of the construction work, which is expected to be completed in 11 months.

Engineering teacher Tim Smith said: “McAlpine has offered us excellent access to the site for teaching many of our vocational groups.

“Even before any of the steel work was in place, we were able to bring students to learn more about careers in construction.

“I’m as excited as the students to see how our new home will feel and to get an idea of the size and layout of it all.”

The students seemed impressed by the building, which already has the steel structure and first floor beams in place.

Philip Dunnage (16) said: “I’ve never been on a building site before, even though my dad works on construction projects.

“It might be useful, if I get to work for my dad when I’m older.

“I’m excited to sign the building so my name will always be here after I leave, even if only we know!

Fellow student Zach Vernon added: “The only other building site I’ve been on was our house; we built most of it ourselves.

“I’m not planning to work in construction, but I might build myself a house in the future, so I’ll be on the look-out for tips.

“I’m really proud to seal my name inside the new school.”

The students were invited to visit the building site by lead contractor Sir Robert McAlpine.

Project manager David Wadge said: “We want all students to be able to learn about and understand the building process of their new facilities from start to finish, and hope that these visits are just the starting point in encouraging a new generation of enthusiastic construction workers into our industry.”

The school’sl headteacher Deborah Reeman said: “We continue to work closely with McAlpine not only on the finer details of our new school, but also on the day to day operation of such a big project.

“Everything is on track for us to move in over the summer ready to start the next academic year in our new school.

“I’m especially pleased
that we have been able to use this unique opportunity to teach and inspire some of those students who hope to work in engineering or construction in the
future.”