Oundle School recently held a ‘topping out’ ceremony on the roof of SciTec, to mark the completion of the external structure of the new SciTec Campus development.
The development of the SciTec Campus, which opens in September 2016, completes the original vision for the award-winning science complex of SciTec which was built in 2007. It sees the construction of a new mathematics department, new science labs and a complete refurbishment of the Patrick Engineering Centre. It will link science, mathematics, design, technology and engineering both physically and philosophically, providing state-of-the-art facilities for tomorrow’s scientists and engineers.
The ceremony was attended by guests including staff from the school and representatives from Kier, the construction company.
The aim is to provide ‘practical hands-on experience’ for scientists and engineers of the future, with pupils able to move seamlessly from theory to practice and from pure science to the achievement of workable technology, whilst embracing new fields such as nanotechnology and mechatronics.
Former pupil and major donor, Alex Patrick CBE, commented: “Since the Victorian Era, Great Britain has excelled in producing some of the world’s greatest scientists, engineers and innovative thinkers. William Sanderson, Headmaster at Oundle School from 1892-1922 recognised this in the early part of the 20th century and pioneered education in science and engineering at the School. Many pupils who attended the School because of such aspirations have gone on to become the technological leaders of their generation.
As an Old Oundelian I always enjoyed my time in the school workshops. Today’s pupils continue to experience this opportunity and it is for this very reason that I, and my family trust, are committed to the further development of the Oundle SciTec Campus. In so doing I hope to help ensure that Oundle remains at the forefront of schools, providing the facilities by which we can inspire future innovators at an early stage in their career development.”
A further transformational, philanthropic gift came from the Michael Uren Foundation. Michael Uren OBE and his other Trustees seek to encourage the education of engineers and development of engineering within the UK. One of Michael’s principal objectives is to help to create the engineers and entrepreneurs of the future and his donation for the SciTec Campus reflects his support for the School’s vision to provide state-of-the-art facilities for tomorrow’s engineers.
Michael Uren said: “This wonderfully exciting project places Oundle where it should be – one of the foremost engineering schools in the country. The UK needs engineers and entrepreneurs if it is to compete and succeed in the future. We were delighted that my Foundation could assist Oundle to achieve its fundraising dreams of completing the SciTec Campus and enhancing the Patrick Engineering Centre.”
Head of Oundle School, Sarah Kerr-Dineen, commented: “The completion of the SciTec Campus will bring to life in the heart of the school a vision to inspire all pupils, and to create the engineers and industry leaders of tomorrow.”
