Built Environment hosts Nura Gili Winter School

Last week, UNSW BE hosted five Indigenous students from across NSW as part of the Nura Gili Winter School. The School is a UNSW wide initiative targeted at Indigenous students in years 10, 11 and 12 who are considering further studies beyond high school. The program gives students a taste of university life as well as an introduction and insight into career opportunities.

Current Built Environment students led activities including site analysis, drawing, virtual model making and building giant structures from large interconnecting foam mats. Thought provoking design exercises encouraged students to challenge their ideas about the built environment.

Students then took their learning out of the classroom with a visit to Prince Alfred Park, the Bondi Coastal Walk, the PowerHouse Museum, and Darling Quartre.

Quinlan and Tim at the Bondi Coast Walk near Waverly Cemetery

Patrick Franklyn, a Sydney Landscape Architect offered to tour the students through the city. His technical and historical knowledge combined with industry connections proved invaluable. He said of the program,

“The Winter School program connects students to people in industry who are passionate about what they do. If you’re deciding what career path to choose, I think it’s really important to visit well designed projects and meet people who inspire you.” 

The group at Darling Quatre

The Nura Gili students liaised with current industry professional throughout the three days. The students learnt about the redevelopment of Darlign Quartre, the Eastern Suburbs Light Rail and the Goods Line with ASPECT Studios, who opened their office doors to give students an idea of what a working studio looks like. 

Caleb designing and constructing a stadium in the Red Centre

A special thank you to Patrick Franklyn, Linda Kennedy, Alex and the team at ASPECT Studios, BE student ambassadors, Nura Gili supervisors, staff and everyone who took part in making the week a success.

To find out more about Nura Gili Winter School program visit nuragili.unsw.edu.au