High Tunstall School wins North East Design & Build Challenge
High Tunstall School’s Tunny Girls Group has been named the winner of this year’s Design & Build Challenge at Hartlepool College of Further Education, highlighting the growing focus on creativity, technical skills, and teamwork among young people entering the construction sector.
The competition, a partnership between Carney Consultancy and Hartlepool College since 2018, invited students from High Tunstall School, Dyke House School, English Martyrs School in Hartlepool, and Easington Community School near Peterlee to design and build model schools or colleges using Lego.
Participants had 75 minutes to construct their models and 50 minutes to present their design, including cost calculations, layout plans, and explanations of sustainability features.
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Judges evaluated entries based on creativity, practicality, sustainability, energy efficiency, use of open space, and inclusion of at least one “fun room,” reflecting real-world construction industry demands.
Supporting female participation in construction
For the ninth year, the event was supported by NAWIC North East and Tees Valley, giving Year 9 girls the opportunity to meet female construction professionals and gain insight into career pathways in the sector. Former participant Amelia Ward returned as a mentor this year, sharing her experience as a site manager at HMH Civils after completing an HNC in Building Studies at Hartlepool College.
Angela Carney, managing director of Carney Consultancy, said: “We are incredibly proud of this year’s challenge. The creativity, teamwork and commitment shown by all students has been inspiring. I would like to congratulate every team that took part and especially High Tunstall School on their well-deserved win.”
The Tunny Girls Group received a £200 prize donated by Carney Consultancy, with judges praising the team’s innovative approach, careful planning, and engaging presentation. Their design was noted for combining creativity with clear adherence to the brief, including practical layout and sustainability features.
John Cartwright, head of business growth and skills at Hartlepool College, added: “The Design & Build Challenge is a fantastic way to show students the wide range of career opportunities in construction and the built environment.
“It provides the skills, knowledge and practical experience they need to succeed in construction and other hands-on careers.”
The challenge is part of a wider programme of initiatives from Carney Consultancy and Hartlepool College, including the Future Female Leaders programme, Golden Hammer Awards, and Building Your Future scheme, all designed to inspire the next generation of construction talent in the North East.
