Pupils from P3 to P6 classes in Elgin, Aberdeen, St Andrews, Edinburgh, West Lothian, North Lanarkshire and West Dunbartonshire took part in the competition launched by Barratt and David Wilson Homes, which aimed to lay the foundations for creativity while introducing young people to the world of construction.

Using materials ranging from tinsel and baubles to paint and craft suppliers, each child designed their own festive hard hat as part of the initiative, blending seasonal cheer with a nod to the building trade.  

To bring the industry to life, local site managers and sales advisers visited participating schools to judge entries and share insights into careers in construction. The winning design from each school earned its creator a £50 Smyths voucher, while all participants were rewarded with a chocolate selection box as a festive treat.

Alison Condie, regional managing director for Scotland, Barratt Redrow, said: “This year’s hard hat challenge has been a fantastic way to combine creativity with an introduction to the construction sector. We want young people to see the exciting opportunities this industry offers, from design and engineering to building communities. The standard of entries has been exceptional, and it’s inspiring to see pupils engage with the concept in such imaginative ways.

“Barratt and David Wilson Homes are committed to creating vibrant new communities across Scotland, and initiatives like this help bring communities together to inspire the next generation of engineers, designers and builders who will shape the future of construction.”