Competitions such as the Bridge Building competition allow learners to experience what civil engineering and infrastructure entails. Schools in and around Eastern Cape (Amathole District municipality) were armed with their hand-made, mathematically calculated wooden bridges and were judged on the aesthetic value to the bridge, simplicity of design and stability. The learners had to apply themselves and create a bridge following specific instructions set out by the judges. The bridge that could withstand the heaviest load and not crack or break under pressure took first prize.