Ohr TRANSFORM / Ohr INITIATIVES / FIRST PRINCIPLES
A structural engineering discovery programme for young people curious about how buildings stand, how engineers think and whether engineering might be a career for them.
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01 / THE PROGRAMME
First Principles introduces young people to the foundations of structural engineering through a structured, mentored placement at Ohr.
The focus is not on producing drawings or calculations quickly. It is on learning to ask good questions, understand how structures behave and explain why engineering decisions are made.
02 / WHAT YOU WILL EXPLORE
The syllabus progresses from fundamental structural behaviour to interpreting buildings, investigating engineering problems and communicating what has been learned. The outline below summarises Ohr's existing 40-day programme.
The role of engineers, forces and loads, equilibrium, beam support conditions, reactions, shear forces and bending moments.
Building structures, interpreting and marking up plans, tributary areas, load paths and introductory engineering calculations using spreadsheets.
Basic structural modelling, comparing hand calculations with software, deflection and the effects of changes in span, loading and support.
Reinforcement, formwork and concreting, construction risks, then a final illustrated report explaining the structural concepts explored.
03 / WHO IT IS FOR
Designed for students and young people aged 16 and above who are curious about the built environment and want to explore whether structural engineering could be a future career. Motivated 15-year-olds may be considered individually.
Previous engineering knowledge is not required. An interest in mathematics, an ability to work independently and a willingness to explain uncertainties and ask questions are more important than technical experience.
Applicants should be comfortable with basic algebra and introductory physics. No prior engineering training is required. Participants under 18 require written consent from a parent or legal guardian. Places are subject to Ohr's review, mentoring capacity and availability.
04 / HOW IT WORKS
Participants work through structured daily tasks with guidance and review from an Ohr engineer. Each task records what was done, what was learned and, importantly, what is not yet understood.
The programme focuses on independent learning and reasoned judgement. Submitted work must be the participant's own; the use of generative AI tools is not permitted during the placement.
At the end of the programme, participants should be able to explain basic structural behaviour and load paths, interpret simple structural drawings, use elementary calculations and models to investigate structural responses, and present their observations clearly in a final illustrated report.
05 / COMPLETION
First Principles is offered free of charge. The aim is to give curious young people an opportunity to explore engineering without a programme fee.
Across 160 scheduled hours, participants undertake structured independent tasks with guidance and review from an Ohr engineer. They develop a foundation in structural behaviour, a deliberate approach to problem-solving and the ability to communicate technical ideas. A final illustrated report records what they have learned.
Participants who successfully complete the programme and its required assignments will receive an Ohr First Principles Certificate of Completion. This recognises participation and the work completed; it is not a professional or academic qualification.
06 / PARTICIPANT EXPERIENCE
“My experience doing the First Principles programme has been both enriching and rewarding. It gave me valuable hands-on experience and a deeper insight into the day-to-day operations and processes behind consulting engineering. It also allowed me to apply what I had learned while developing my technical skills.
Throughout my time, everyone was extremely welcoming and accommodating, often taking time out of their busy schedules to guide me through challenges and answer any questions I had. Their patience and willingness to share their knowledge made the learning experience even more valuable.
Overall, my time doing this programme has not only broadened my understanding of the engineering industry but has also strengthened my interest and passion for civil engineering as a whole. I am truly grateful for the opportunity, the guidance I received, and the experience I gained.”
Ethan DeRozario
First Principles participant, 2026
07 / ENQUIRIES
Interested in First Principles? Complete the application below with a short introduction, your age, current stage of study and why you would like to participate. We will review your application and advise on availability.
Apply for First Principles ↗Applications are considered individually; available places depend on mentoring capacity.