Students enjoy masterclass about hydroelectric power

Barrow Sixth Form students have been learning about hydropower as a sustainable way to produce electricity.

The sixthformers, who are studying A Levels, took part in a masterclass to design a hydropower scheme.

Learning Hydro delivered the STEM day at the Rating Lane campus and shared their knowledge and expertise of the technology involved in the renewable power sector.

They tasked the students with finding the most effective way of creating hydropower at a rural location in the South Lakes.

David Williams and Gordon Black, directors of learning at Learning Hydro, were very impressed with the creativity and tenacity of students as they work to make the plan that would generate the most electricity.

David said: “It was fantastic to be here in Barrow today to speak to students and explain more about the whole spectrum of hydropower and its advantages.”

He said the event had been backed by Ørsted, the global leader in offshore wind, and community fund GrantScape.

Gabe Scarpone, who is studying A Levels in business, law, politics and sociology, said he had enjoyed the experience. “It’s good to learn about how we can use forms of sustainable energy as we move forward to the future,” he said. Adult learner Sana Fawad Saleemi, who is also studying A Levels,  said she found the teamwork aspect of the group activity helpful while fellow student Ella Drury said knowledge of hydropower would be relevant for all their futures.

Dr Helen Rastelli, Head of Area, said “Sustainable power sources are vital for tackling climate change; climate change is high on the agenda for many students and an awareness of environmental issues is a vital employability skill. We were delighted to welcome David and Gordon to campus and they had a really engaging way of sharing their expertise with our students.”

Dr Andy Burrows, tutor of geography and biology, said: “ Opportunities for physical geographers and biologists will be increasingly important, knowledge of the natural environment is essential when designing hydro-schemes in an eco-friendly way. ”