Construction students join Cement Fields ‘Intertidal Allotments Project’ 

Our Construction students recently took part in an exciting and meaningful workshop led by Cement Fields, a local arts organisation working on an innovative environmental project along the Kent coastline. 

What is the Intertidal Allotments Project? 

The project which is centred around the creation of intertidal allotments aims to support the natural regeneration of coastal ecosystems. These specially-designed structures will sit within shorelines and beaches, encouraging the growth of native plants and creating habitats for wildlife. 

Emma Leach, Associate Curator at Cement Fields, explained the heart behind the initiative: “We’re really trying to involve people in developing what it means to make an allotment for the coastline. The students are part of the local community, so it’s important to build that connection. 

“They’re also in a stage of life where they’re learning, so it’s fun to be teaching them things but also learning from them.” 

Working with Biochar 

As part of the workshop, students were introduced to a fascinating material called Biochar. This biodegradable product is being used to create seed holders that will eventually become part of the intertidal installations. 

The hands-on session saw students sanding down blocks of Biochar and drilling large holes into them. Each biochar block will be filled with compost and seeds ready to support new growth in the coastal landscape. 

Thomas, Skills Practitioner for the College, shared his thoughts on the initiative, commenting: 

“It’s great to get involved in these kinds of projects. It gives the students more of an insight into what’s happening within their local community and the area that they live. It’s good for them to know about all the positive changes happening in the world.  

“The students have worked really hard today. They’ve been very hands on, working as a team to carry out the task.” 

Building connections with the wider community 

Beyond the practical skills, this project has offered students a deeper connection to their environment and a chance to reflect on how their skills and sustainability can go hand in hand. During the workshop, the students developed their confidence, worked as a team, and explored how their work can have broader applications, something that’s becoming increasingly important in industries that value sustainability and innovation. 

Their contributions will become part of a lasting installation that benefits both people and nature.  

Emma highlighted the value of bringing technical skills into creative, real-world contexts. She commented: “We’re not just asking for help, we’re inviting students to shape something new. There’s a real crossover between construction skills and environmental design, and it’s exciting to see young people engage with that.” 

Projects like this remind us that College isn’t just about learning a trade, it’s about being ready to put those skills to use wherever they’re needed, whether that’s on a construction site, in a workshop, or helping to shape the future of our coastline. 

Intrigued and want to read more about the community project, read more on the Cement Fields website, here. 

Interested in learning hands-on construction skills?  

Considering applying for one of our Construction and the Built Environment courses today.