The shed has been designed by a group of students at NPTC college and is a work in progress. The completed building transforms to reveal a retail outlet for enterprise activities. Working with several local organisations and community groups (including Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust, Glanhafren, Coed Cymru and Alun Griffiths Construction) the group has followed the creative process from their initial ideas inspired by research of pop up shops, features of welsh and local historical architecture and environmental features to the development of models and their final inventive design. They have incorporated environmentally friendly features ( a green roof and rain gardens) and have built the structure by regenerating Douglas Fir timber salvaged from the current work building the Newtown bypass. Flora from this area will be used for the green roof. The students currently use the courtyard area where the shed is sited for horticultural activities and will further develop these skills in the raised flower beds that are incorporated into the design. Bug hotels mirroring the shed design are also sited in the area. A range of jewellery has been designed using the off cuts of the timber so nothing has gone to waste. We are currently in the process of working with a local blacksmith to produce the ironmongery which has been designed around the features of the garden.
The project is a wealthy learning experience for this group of learners who have beenprovided with opportunities to develop their skills within a real working environment collaborating with practitioners from specialist organisations.
The shed with allow them opportunities to develop their entrepreneurial skills and will be a legacy for future students across the campus.