Nine students from Barton Peveril Sixth Form College showcased their innovative ideas for enhancing sustainability in the Solent region, presenting to an expert panel at Southampton Solent University in early July.
These presentations marked the culmination of the ‘Sustainability in the Solent’ Q-EXTRA programme, an initiative running since May that provided students with a deep dive into the multifaceted concept of sustainability. As part of the project, students attended three sessions at the university, exploring the three pillars of sustainability – environmental, social, and economic impacts – and learning to develop holistic solutions.
A workshop, led by Dr. Laurie Wright, challenged students to design a new ferry service to Cowes, requiring them to consider complex factors, including pollution and ship design, as well as economic viability. The final presentations demonstrated a range of well-researched and confidently delivered ideas, highlighting the students’ ability to step out of their comfort zones and articulate unique visions for a more sustainable Solent.
Sarah Varley, Subject Leader of Engineering, shares, “We want to extend a massive thank you to Southampton Solent University for hosting us, and particularly to Dr Laurie Wright and Associate Pro Vice-Chancellor Johnathan Ridley, for making this invaluable opportunity possible for our students. It’s fantastic to see them so engaged with the challenges that will shape their future.”