Fairvale in top quarter of national bridge-building contest
The team placed sixth out of 24 schools in the national round in Pretoria.
FAIRVALE Secondary’s bridge building club placed in the top quarter of 24 schools competing in a national bridge-building competition.
After securing first, second and third place in the provincial round of a model bridge-building competition held at the Garden Court Hotel on 18 August, the team placed sixth out of 24 schools in the national round in Pretoria.
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The team was overjoyed at its streak of being the only school to win all three regional top spots for the third consecutive year, as well as a trophy for best bridge design.
Principal of Fairvale, Mr Siedle could not hide his excitement at his pupils’ outstanding achievements. “We are exceptionally proud of our record in the South African Institution of Civil Engineering (SAICE) bridge building competition. Having won first, second and third place in the regionals for three consecutive years is magnificent,” said the proud principal.
Grade 11 pupil and member of the team, Mitchell Louw said he is honoured to be part of the team and the school. “Winning the provincials is a message to our competitors to not underestimate us even though we are from Fairvale. They must be wary – we will be back to win again,” laughed Louw.
The aspiring aeronautical engineer said he chose to be on the bridge team led by teacher, Mr Lewis so he could learn about bridge making, as he believes this could make many lives easier, especially those in rural areas who would benefit from bridges built by future generations who started out in these bridge clubs. “We want to make a difference and why not start in these clubs? I encourage high school pupils to find what clubs their school has to offer and join them. Not only will you learn new skills but you will develop friendships with your teammates.”
