PUPILS from Monmouth School have landed an award at the Engineering Education Scheme Wales Welsh National Convention of Excellence in Engineering and Technology held at the Celtic Manor.
The team of sixth formers designed a system to reduce manual handling of mouldings at Fulleon Ltd. The sophistication of their design impressed judges and the pupils were awarded the WDA sponsored prize for most innovative solution to the project set.
The team of Alex Butler, Huw Davies, Fraser Gillies, Gareth Hopes and Owen Humphries won £500 in cash.
Alex said: "I have gained a better understanding of engineering through working on this project. It has also taught me to work effectively within a team."
Inventor James Dyson CBE delivered a keynote speech at the awards ceremony. Mr Dyson, famous for the invention of the bagfree washing cleaner and new dual cyclone washing machine, is keen to change public perception of manufacturing and engineering.
"It's easy to make careers in film and the media sound interesting, but it's harder to get across that manufacturing is interesting, challenging and creative," he said.
Minister for Education Jane Davidson attended the event and was delighted with the quality of exhibits.
The award was presented by Sir David Rowe-Beddoe, Chairman of the WDA.