We all deserve ample opportunities to appreciate and explore the great outdoors, regardless of age, ability, and residence.
Ten talented students from Heworth Grange School couldn’t agree with this statement more, and therefore decided to do something about it!
Putting their heads together and branching out from the norm, they were able to create the conceptualisation of an app to help local people access green spaces – and it received some very significant praise.
Recognition in such a prestigious international competition
The team’s proposal aimed to facilitate access to nearby green spaces for both students and residents in the local community.
Their proposal included comprehensive strategies to improve the safety and inclusivity of these spaces, particularly for those with disabilities, and those living in urban areas without many services.
Once satisfied with the final product, the team’s proposition was scrutinised by a panel of judges from Otis, a leading global elevator and escalator manufacturing, installation, and service company.
Otis had tasked students with devising innovative solutions to improve access to urban green spaces while addressing environmental and societal needs.
A tough, international competition
240 students from 15 countries across the world took part in the competition, now in its fourth year, which is designed to develop youngsters’ skills in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).
It was a tough environment, and yet the team at Heworth Grange School still achieved recognition in such a prestigious international competition. Brilliant, congratulations to all!
Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East, said: “”Congratulations to these innovative students for their exceptional app proposal! Your commitment to helping create accessible environments is a true forward-thinking approach to community wellbeing, and the North East is proud to have you.”
An honourable mention that exceeded expectations
Owen Inglis, Executive Head Teacher of Heworth Grange School, said: “I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate this team of 10 talented students who worked so hard and collaboratively on this project.
“Designing an app is no easy task, but they never gave up and all contributed to the task with a wide range of skills and talents.
“We are very proud of their achievement, which reflects Heworth Grange’s commitment to having the very highest expectations for all our students.”
Gary Talbot, STEM lead for Consilium Academies, said: “I am immensely proud to see Heworth Grange recognised in such a prestigious international competition.
“Being selected to represent the UK and earning an honourable mention not only reflects our students’ innovative spirit but also underscores the impactful learning experiences fostered through this challenge.”
Claire Tompkins, Communications Lead at Otis, said: “On behalf of Otis, can I say what an absolute pleasure it has been working with Heworth Grange on this project.”
Fantastic feedback all round! Another huge well done to the ten talented students, and all colleagues at Heworth Grange for their involvement. Let us know when it’s ready to download and the Schools North East team will be the first on the app store!
Consilium Evolve is a Schools North East Partner Trust . If you’d like to find out more about our Partner School membership, click here.
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