BUDDING Brunels got to grips with designing their own bridges during an engineering challenge.

A team of 50 Year 9 students at Bitterne Park School took part in the Smallpeice Trust bridge building competition.

They built the structures using paper straws and were judged on aesthetics and teamwork.

The students were selected for their enthusiasm in design technology.

Dan Vardy, head of art and graphics, said: “It was really good, engaging and well thought out.

“It raised the profile of engineering with students – they really enjoyed it and everyone was into it.

“We have a history of engineering and being excellent at it, it was great to tap into that.

“There are so many things that are engineered, like planes, cars, and hospital equipment, and the students can see this is a possible career.

“It’s come at a good time as they have to pick their GCSEs at Easter.”