Nearly 200 pupils from across North Lanarkshire explored sustainable construction practices as part of a special event.
The high school pupils also had the opportunity to gain industry insights, and develop skills geared to a "greener future", during the BE-ST Fest 24 Next Gen Summit.
The event, hosted by Built Environment – Smarter Transformation (BE-ST) and organised by North Lanarkshire Council’s NL Academies team, aimed to inspire the next generation towards careers in a net-zero carbon built environment.
Held at BE-ST’s innovation campus in the Hamilton Technology Park, the summit featured an Eco School Project created by Class of Your Own.
Pupils worked in teams, taking on real-world roles, such as surveyor, director, and architect, to design environmentally friendly, energy-efficient school buildings.
Provost Kenneth Duffy, who was present at the event, said: "The facilities at BE-ST are fantastic, providing a superb learning environment.
"It was incredible to see the enthusiasm and talent of our young people as they tackle sustainability challenges with such creativity."
During the day, the pupils visited different workstations, including material showcases, design exhibitions, and surveying plots, and received feedback from BE-ST industry experts.
Judging panels then assessed each team’s approach and application of sustainable practices.
Councillor Andrew Duffy-Lawson, who was also in attendance at the event, said: "As a council, we are committed to building a skilled workforce for the future, and with the help of BE-ST’s outstanding staff and facilities, this event offered an innovative, hands-on experience for our pupils and an insight into future career opportunities in the built environment."
Kirsty Duncan, associate director of skills infrastructure at BE-ST, said: "Next Gen is designed to inspire the next generation about the possibilities of sustainable construction and a zero-carbon built environment.
"We were thrilled to collaborate with Class of Your Own as part of the Next Gen Summit to host and deliver their largest eco-classroom event in the UK to date in collaboration with NL Academies and local teachers.
"Investing in education is key to fostering a generation ready to tackle the challenges of the climate emergency and supporting the UK’s just transition to net zero."
Funding for the programme came from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
More information about NL Academies is available at https://www.northlanarkshire.gov.uk/your-council/council-strategies-and-plans/council-strategies/nl-academies
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