STEEL poppies created by engineering students will act as a permanent reminder of the sacrifices made in conflicts through history.

UTC South Durham and Aycliffe Fabrications, in Newton Aycliffe, have collaborated to commemorate the centenary of the First World War with a giant poppy dedication.

Pupils in Year 10 designed and made individual poppies in the engineering hall which will be displayed outside the college with a larger installation created by Aycliffe Fabrications.

Jessie Clark, engineering teacher at UTC, who has led this project alongside Aylciffe Fabrications, said: “Marking the sacrifices made in the First World war and other conflicts is something that is very close to so many of us.

“We all remember in our own way but the poppy is iconic. To watch our young people make their own poppies with their own messages has been amazing.

“It’s something that will last many years to come so that we can remember all of the people that lost their lives. I’m very proud to have been part of it.”

The Year 10 students were also involved in an education day that involved designing an evacuation pack and sessions based upon British values.

UTC South Durham are always looking for opportunities to engage with businesses to ensure that students are ready for the world of work and to make industry links in the region and beyond.

For more details about UTC visit utcsouthdurham.org