Coryton pupils explore sustainability at the new Velindre Cancer Centre

A group of 15 Year 3 pupils from Coryton Primary, recently took a short journey to the site of the new Velindre Cancer Centre (nVCC) for an afternoon of fun, exploration and recycle based learning. 

The visit was part of a collaboration between Sacyr UK and EMR Recycling, aimed at building essential skills in future generations, by educating young pupils to the science of construction and the sustainable systems that support it.

Welcomed by Sacyr UK’s Community Benefits Co-ordinator Joanne O’Keefe, the pupils began their visit with a guided site walk, observing the scale of the nVCC project from a surrounding safety path. 

Inside the classroom, pupils met EMR Recycling representatives Barry Flanagan and Ben Taylor, who led an engaging session on what materials are used on site and the important role recycling plays in producing them. Pupils also learnt about reducing waste to combat climate change. 

When asked about the aims and influence of the project, Ben said: “At EMR, we believe that building a sustainable future starts with empowering young people through education. In collaboration with Sacyr, we recently delivered an engaging learning experience that introduced students to the importance of recycling, the positive impacts recycling has on the planet and how the materials we recycle can be used again to build new structures - maybe even their next school or future workplace.”

The two eco experts taught pupils the difference between magnetic and non-magnetic materials, giving them small samples of material to magnetically test themselves. This helped them to understand the types of metals used in everyday life and their relevance to construction.

Ben added: “Together, Sacyr UK and EMR will continue this work across schools and communities to raise awareness around recycling in the construction industry, providing hands-on learning opportunities and inspiring the next generation to lead the way in environmental responsibility.”

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to social value, educating young people and creating legacy impacts for people and the planet.”