News A Design For Life 07.05.2026

Collyer’s Year 13 Environmental Science and Engineering students were recently given a unique opportunity to get an insight into the importance of sustainable product design and some hands-on practical experience of repairing products with experienced repairers who volunteer for Sussex Green Living (SGL). The session was funded by Innovate UK (represented by Lily Melody and Sally Beken) and organised by Sussex Green Living (represented by Carrie Cort and Elle Runton).

Deputy Principal, Steve Martell, introduced the event in the Lecture Theatre, and the students were then given expert presentations about Innovate UK’s role in promoting sustainable industry by Lily Melody, followed by Carrie Cort, CEO of SGL, who gave an outline of the repair cafes organised by Sussex Green Living in the local area, and this was all brought together by Elle Runton (SGL) who outlined how it fitted into the circular economy model.

The students then enjoyed a delicious free vegan lunch provided by Emma Snowshill from Emma’s Kitchen, and had the opportunity to talk to Sarah Hadwen from West Sussex County Council’s careers service.

Following lunch, the students split into mixed groups of Environmental Scientists and Engineers and were taken through a practical session by seven repair café volunteers

Dr Ian Carr, Collyer’s Sustainability Co-ordinator and Assistant Director of the Science Faculty, said: “The expert volunteers demonstrated that some products were designed to be repaired to lengthen their useful lifespan, while others were designed to be disposable and therefore a wasted resource. Head of Engineering also Amarjit Chana stepped into the breach and took on the role of a repairer to help out!”

Following the session, students were interviewed to find their opinions of this pilot event as it is hoped that similar sessions can be offered at other institutions locally and nationally.

Dr Carr added: “Huge thanks to our Engineering and Environmental Science students and staff, Innovate UK, Kate’s Kitchen, Sussex Green Living, Take One Productions, and West Sussex County Council.

“It was all hands on deck as Collyer’s technicians worked wonders to help co-ordinate the movement of groups and individuals around the college.”

Deputy Principal Steve Martell added: “The inspiring Innovate UK workshop was a huge success with students and staff at Collyer’s, and creatively demonstrated the material value and challenges of repairing everyday products.”