New Campus giving Oscar on-job experience
A pupil from Ardrossan Academy has been given a jump start in his ambition to become an architect – thanks to the new campus being built in the town.
JM Architects are involved in the design of the new education and community campus.
Giving back to the community – officially known as community benefits – are part of all major construction contracts with the Council.
And while this can take many forms, including grants to local groups and educational events at local schools, Oscar Bridge was given a chance to learn first-hand what it takes to be an architect.
The s6 pupil was invited to their Glasgow office for some hands-on work experience.
While here he was there, Oscar worked on a project to design a small office, including the use of industry-recognised software.
Quote: I was quite apprehensive, unsure of what to expect on my first day up at their office. However, once I arrived and was introduced to everyone, my nerves were quickly quelled. Soon after, I was assigned my own workstation with full access to the same IT programmes, equipment and materials used by the staff members at the office.
Quote from: Oscar Bridge, S6 pupil at Ardrossan Academy
Oscar added: “With this desk came my work experience; designing a theoretical house for myself located in a block of mews. I was given full autonomy over this project, designing this house myself with the same appliances the professionals use.
“Each day I had regular one-to-ones with members of staff for guidance, assessment and appraisal for my progress going through each stage of the design process.
“My time spent at their office has fully reaffirmed my aspirations to continue this line of work as my future. I could not be more thankful to both my school for arranging this work position for me and also JM Architects for granting me this opportunity to attend their premises in Glasgow, working and learning alongside their team."
Councillor Tony Gurney, Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy, said “This has been a great opportunity for Oscar and one which he has grabbed with both hands.
“We will continue to make sure that community benefits are a big part in all the contracts we award so residents, like Oscar, can benefit.”
Published: 22 April 2025