Over 180 North Lanarkshire high school pupils recently had the opportunity to dive into the world of sustainable construction at the BE-ST Fest 24 Next Gen Summit. The event, hosted by BE-ST, Scotland's national innovation centre for a net-zero built environment, and organised by North Lanarkshire Council's NL Academies team, provided S1 pupils with hands-on experiences in sustainable design.

The summit, held at BE-ST's innovation campus in Hamilton Technology Park, featured an Eco School Project where pupils worked in teams to design environmentally friendly school buildings. They took on various roles, including surveyor, director, and architect, gaining valuable insights into the construction industry. BE-ST experts guided the pupils through workshops on sustainable materials, marketing, and engineering, inspiring them to consider careers in the net-zero carbon built environment.

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The pupils were accompanied by Provost Kenneth Duffy, Councillor Andrew Duffy-Lawson, Convener of Finance and teachers from their schools.

Provost Duffy 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 S1 pupils visited different workstations, including material showcases, design exhibitions, and surveying plots, with feedback from BE-ST industry experts. Judging panels then assessed each team's approach and application of sustainable practices.

Councillor Duffy-Lawson explained: "As a council, we are committed to building a skilled workforce for the future, and with 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."