Making an entrance!

Brinsbury College’s blacksmith students’ work has taken pride of place – at the campus main entrance.
The students were commissioned by college principal, Sally Challis-Manning MBE, to create a spectacular sculpture to welcome students, staff and visitors.
And their stunning metalwork creation, which pays homage to the different curriculum areas, certainly makes for a striking first impression at the entrance to the college.
Seb Turner, Bailey Harris and Chris Whitling worked together on the screen-style sculpture, using symbolism and motifs to represent all aspects of Brinsbury life – including equine, dog grooming, horticulture, agriculture, furniture making and – of course – blacksmithing & farriery.
Chris added: “We were given artistic freedom, but it was a real-life project so we had to take on board what the customer – the college – wanted, rather than just doing whatever we wanted.
“We had to present our designs and come back with alterations, figuring out what we could do – find the balance between what was realistic and what was representative.”
The entrance was officially ‘unveiled’ at a ceremony on Saturday 4 March, attended by FE Commissioner Shelagh Legrave CBE DL – who cut the ribbon – as well as college dignitaries, governors and staff who were also invited to spread wildflower seeds, which will add a floral display to the entrance.
For the students, who have now completed their courses and are in full-time employment, to have created a lasting legacy at the college has given them a sense of real pride.
Seb revealed: “I think this is the best thing I’ve done. I’ve never had a feeling like it really – it’s something we did. From start to finish, using our hands and our ideas, we made that!”
Bailey added: “I pass the college most weeks and, to see our work, it makes me feel really proud.”
Principal Sally was beaming with pride at the ceremony, and she reflected: “This is a beautiful piece of art that will greet everyone who comes to Brinsbury for years to come.
“Our blacksmithing courses are fantastic, and we are among only a few colleges across the country offering young people and adults the opportunity to study this important craft.
“I’m delighted it is their work, bringing together all elements of our college campus together in a celebration of Brinsbury.
“The current students are also working on a project, in collaboration with our horticulture students and I can’t wait to see more of their hard work on display.”