Local school children gain hands-on learning experience at Tŷ Glas demolition site

The demolition site at the former HMRC office buildings in Tŷ Glas Llanishen, is providing children from local schools with a unique opportunity to learn about and experience the live demolition process.

Hosted by Erith, the demolition contractor chosen to undertake the works, pupils from Christ the King Primary School, Ysgol Y Wern and Llanishen High School have enjoyed bespoke visits to the site where they have observed the impressive high reach demolition in action, engaged in discussions with senior members of the demolition team and viewed presentations to complement their in-class learning experiences.

Ysgol Y Wern pupils pose for a picture at at the Tŷ Glas site

Areas covered have included local history, demolition, recycling of materials, environmental aspects and planning procedures, as well as career insights into demolition.

Christ the King Primary School Headteacher, Brenda Miles, said: "Our visit to the Tax Office site at Tŷ Glas was part of our studies about the local area. As an Eco Platinum Flag school, we were interested in finding out how the demolished materials are going to be disposed of and were pleased to find out that they are going to be recycled as aggregate for future building works."

Ysgol Y Wern Headteacher, Moira Kellaway said: "It was a wonderful opportunity for our pupils to see firsthand what's happening on site in their local area and being able to discuss a topical event or issue. It certainly has fostered an interest among the pupils and extended their knowledge of changes happening in their locality."

Christ the King Primary School pupils at the Tŷ Glas site

Deputy Leader for Cardiff and cabinet member for Education, Councillor Sarah Merry said: "It's important that we involve young people in the transformation of their local surroundings and this scheme is a fantastic way to engage eager young minds. As the UK's first UNICEF Child Friendly City, it's our priority to include young people in the projects that we undertake, especially when they have an impact on the future of their area.

"These exciting opportunities deepen students' understanding of local history, demolition techniques, and the importance of recycling material whilst ensuring that they aren't just spectators, but active participants in the reshaping of their community."

These educational initiatives are part of Erith's commitment to social values. Other schools have already attended sessions on site and as the project continues, Erith looks forward to welcoming more schools this spring, including Greenhill and Cardiff & Vale College.

Work began on the Tŷ Glas site in June 2023 and is currently due to finish in the autumn.