This September, future engineers from EKC Canterbury College have been collaborating with Severn Trent, one of the UK’s leading water companies, on a specialist project.
Three T Level Engineering students – Benjamin Prentice, Johnny Scutt, and Jayden Majmader – who are studying Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing, were tasked by Severn Trent to design a 3D model of a new water treatment plan. The model, intended for use in meetings and national expos, has been an exciting opportunity for learners to showcase their skills in a real-world setting.
Leading the project was Benjamin Prentice, who is also a Skills Practitioner at the College. He said: “It’s been a great project to be involved with. It’s something we can all be proud of and add to our portfolios. Unlike standard assignments, this project means we can work independently and make all of the decisions. We took ownership of the direction and got the best ideas out of working together.”
This project has been in development since the summer, following discussions between Severn Trent’s Head of Business Development and Marketing Manager which Lara Day, Head of Business Development and Marketing Manager and our Engineering department.
General Manager, William Mackveley, has been heavily involved, often visiting the Engineering department to check on the project’s progress and to offer expert guidance and advice.
He said: “It’s been a pleasure working closely with EKC Canterbury College students Benjamin, Johnny, and Jayden. We’re very pleased with their hard work and look forward to seeing the model travel the length of the country at various construction and technical expos. I have no doubt that the future is bright for these three, and on behalf of Severn Trent Connect, wish them all the best in the learning journey.”
For the team, having this close working relationship with an industry-leading company has been a very positive aspect of the entire project, with Benjamin saying: “It’s been a challenge at times to figure out what to do next and how exactly to do things, but having Severn Trent come in at the halfway stage and see just what we’d done was very encouraging. They gave us some very positive feedback which has helped shape the final stages.”
Engineering Lecturer, Karl Swithenbank, has overseen the project so far. He said: “This opportunity has been fantastic for the students to develop their skills in a practical, real-world context. Severn Trent’s feedback has been incredible encouraging for the learners, and they have been entirely independent on this project. They’ve been supported only very lightly so far, and I’m very excited to see the final model in use.”
Industry Liaison Officer, Louise Sutcliffe, has also played a key role in coordinating the collaboration. She highlighted the learners’ dedication, saying: “The team have shown great leadership and communication skills. Their passion for engineering is truly commendable, and I’m so happy with how all of the learners have worked together on this project.”
The project will be unveiled at the Kent Construction Expo on Thursday 3 October, where all three students will be eager to see their work in action.
Looking ahead, Benjamin expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying: “This project has been an absolute standout for my portfolio. I’m hoping to use the leadership skills I’ve gained as I look to progress into a degree apprenticeship after College.”
Industry partnerships like this one are invaluable for EKC Canterbury College, as students across all subject areas benefit from similar projects that help develop practical skills.
To learn more about our industry links and the range of T Levels available, including in Engineering, visit EKC Canterbury College’s website.
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