Bridging the river

London’s bridges are a rich subject for the study of design and technology. They are elegant landmarks that exemplify the best technology of their time and relate closely to the city’s social and economic development. London exists because of the River Thames, however, the river also divides the city, and for many centuries London designers and engineers have sought to find new ways to bridge the Thames and bear the load of the capital’s busy traffic, while not obstructing the river’s flow or its many passenger and cargo boats. In the process they have created some of the London’s most iconic sights.

Lesson objectives

In these units students will engage with one of the most basic and long-standing engineering challenges tackled by Londoners throughout time.

• They will explore, test and use the properties of materials and the performance of structural elements to inform bridge design.
• A research visit to the River Thames will offer an opportunity to explore the technology and history of some of the most famous bridges in the world.
• And as a final project, students will plan an exhibition to share the design features and stories of the Thames’ bridges with a younger audience.