If you like things that are a bit different and want to find out more about energy generation or are interested in modern sculpture, go along to Engineering 2 to see the 'Lifecycle', our fabulous new resource which arrived on Friday 13th June.

If you like things that are a bit different and want to find out more about energy generation or are interested in modern sculpture, go along to Engineering 2 to see the ‘Lifecycle’, our fabulous new resource which arrived on Friday 13th June. 

The ‘lifecycle’ was created by sculptors Andy Comely and Huw Cross in 2007 using recycled materials including a windmill motor from a yacht.  It is purpose built for exploring themes and environmental issues relating to renewable energy.  The life cycle uses kinetic energy (pedal power) to create a power reserve for two types of power 12V (DC) and 240V (AC).  This can be used to power a number of possible applications including music systems, laptops and projectors.

Mrs Wake describes the new addition as, “Absolutely brilliant!  It looks like Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and even has its own CD player and disco lights.”

The resource was commissioned by Tees Valley Arts and was originally intended to be used as a resource that could be hired from TVA.  However, as they were unable to house it, they asked if there were any schools, or colleges that would use it as an educational tool.  Given our Academy’s commitment to sustainability and our science specialism it fits very well with us and we are delighted to have been chosen to look after it.  It’s now ours to keep and use and we hope that it could be used effectively in Art, Music, Engineering or any subject to enhance lessons.   

In addition, we will soon be receiving a ‘solar trolley’, which heats water as a demonstration of renewable energy. The trolley is a moveable version of a domestic solar water heating system that is being donated to schools as part of a project the Academy has helped to develop.