Glass Bridge challenge makes maths and engineering fun

Maths and engineering is being made accessible for all with a challenge for students and staff at Cambridge Regional College

The challenge involves a series of questions drawn onto a highly visible glass bridge located within the college, which start off easy and become increasingly difficult as you cross the bridge and return.

Questions relate to the bridge itself, providing a real-life context for discussion.

The challenge comes amid news that Cambridge Regional College has been named as among one of just 21 colleges in the country that is designated a Centre for Excellence in maths.

Lecturer and Excellence Coach, Paul Hillier with engineering tutors Leigh Sessions and Dr Kennedy Ihianle, have arranged the event, called the Glass Bridge Challenge, to inspire young people to get involved and improve their maths skills.

Michael Lancaster, Project Manager for the Centre for Excellence added: “We are taking an innovative approach to engaging students with maths. Our aim is to improve the outcomes for our learners who are yet to realise their potential.” 

Paul Hillier said: “We are making the most of the college’s outdoor spaces, and in the process connect people outside of a traditional classroom setting to talk maths.”

Leigh Sessions said: “People think engineers bend metal bars and get dirty. What they don’t realise is that there is an awful lot of maths and logical reasoning behind it. This challenge is designed to stimulate people’s imaginations to enjoy both subject areas.”

Kennedy added: “This challenge is building team work between departments and challenging students to be innovative thinkers.”

The questions and designs were put onto the glass panels thanks to creative English tutor Daniel Pearce.

Student Omar Alwardot said: “Problems like these show me my true potential.”

Student Amy Kalton added:“I want to work in the aircraft industry and doing extra things like this proves to me that I’m more than capable.”

The Glass Bridge Challenge is in place for the next fortnight.

All students and staff are invited to take part. Prizes are £20 Amazon gift vouches for the winners across a number of categories and Costa vouchers to students who make a genuine effort to answer the questions.