Industrial Projects
Sharon Joyce
linking teaching and learning with industry and
the role of student projects.
TYPES OF PROJECTS

Longer projects usually over 3 months or
800/600 hours
◦ Placement Projects with student based on
company premises
◦ Projects where student acts as external
consultant/contractor and visits company

Short projects as part of an auditing
module
BENEFITS FOR THE
COMPANY
Knowledgeable, dedicated resource
 SD is a difficult concept often having a
project specific to the company aids
understanding
 Often an actual cash saving
 Highlighting of regulatory infringements
 Can act as a no obligation trial period
before employment

BENEFITS FOR THE
STUDENT
Allows a practical understanding of theory
as SD can be a difficult concept in the
abstract
 Real life employment experience
 Self realisation of latent abilities
 Self confidence and reliance
 Increased employability

ESPA
Projects: creating and
embedding a sustainability
strategy; developing
sustainable energy strategy
1st degree:
Countryside Management
Communications
Environmental Science
Employment after graduating:
Energy Efficiency Officer Northamptonshire County Council
Starting an energy management company in Canada
Carbon Reduction & Sustainability Officer Kingston Upon Thames
GOSFORTH HIGH
SCHOOL
Project: Calculate the carbon
footprint of GHS and aid in
promoting a sustainable
approach to future
environmental projects.
1st degree:
Biology
Employment after graduating:
Sustainability Assistant for
Berkeley Homes
NEWCASTLE UNIVERSITY
ESTATES SUPPORT
SERVICES
Short Auditing Projects
Energy
Water
Waste
EMS
“The interviews provided us with knowledge
through experience which we absolutely
could not have taken from a classroom
situation.”
“I believe it was an excellent experience and
a brilliant introduction to the reality of auditing
that gave us the opportunity to apply the
theory we have been taught. I imagine {for}
even those students who do not feel audit
experience is necessary for their career
development, it is an excellent confidence
enhancing {opportunity} that also encourages
effective team work.”
CONCLUSION
Industrial projects are very good for
students
 They embed learning
 They help employability
 Sustainable Development is an easy way
of getting companies engage.
 Also a good way for academics to engage
with industry
