Pupils Step Into the Past to Shape the Future of Architecture

Last Friday, Ms Smith and Mrs Lockwood took a group of pupils to County Hall in Preston. The aim of the visit was to inspire future architects through viewing Victorian, Edwardian and 1970s architecture and interior design features.

On the visit pupils learnt about County Hall's place in the Georgian area of Fishergate and its 1903 extension built in keeping with the original 1878 building which is further into Pitt Street. Pupils saw one of the original prison cell doors from when Lancashire Constabulary was based there. Pupils were in awe of the Council chambers opulent features including the stained glass windows moved from the original chambers. 

Pupils were given access to the main stained glass window in County Hall which members of the public rarely see. The traditional elements were contrasted by the Christ Church development from the 1970s with its marble staircase, chapel features and external door handles. Staff and pupils were impressed with the internal chapel doors which depicted Lancashire's architectural features and visual elements. Ms Smith and Mrs Lockwwod marvelled at the resin-encased bugs and grains within the carvings of the elaborate doors.

Lead Practitioner for Personal Development, Ms Smith said, "We were delighted that County Hall had agreed to our visit on this particular theme rather than as a visit regarding its function within Lancashire. Vanessa Carthy and her Learning and Development team enjoyed the visit which was a first for them. Vanessa's team hopes to enthuse more young people to work for Lancashire County Council in the future and this trip allows youngsters to feel more familiar with the environment. Vanessa was so impressed with our young people that she has offered further visits in the future".

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