Loughborough College Transitions students have turned a woodwork showcase into a sell out success.
The students were thrilled when a range of work they had produced in lessons, which also help them develop valuable life skills, was put on display for a day-long event - and was so impressive that it was snapped up in moments.
“The Transitions students worked incredibly hard for months on these items, so for them to receive so much praise for their workmanship and to see people eager to buy the pieces they had created, for their homes or for presents, was fantastic,” said Loughborough College learning support assistant Anna Jane Warren.
“There were seasonal items including wooden Christmas trees and wreaths as well as candle holders, bird boxes and wine racks and the students are now beginning work on planters, seating and large garden games such as noughts and crosses and Connect 4 for the summer.”
“Not only do the students produce outstanding work but we also ensure our lessons enable them to develop key life skills,” added woodwork lecturer Tom Hickey.
“We offer support if it’s needed but the aim is for us to stand back. The learners do everything from choosing their own wood and developing their own design right through to completing the finished piece.
“At the beginning of each lesson, they write a plan outlining what they hope to achieve, which is excellent for their literacy and also helps them build their time management and target-setting skills. Measuring during their design and creation process is brilliant for their numeracy while reflecting on outcomes against their initial plan improves their ability to assess their capabilities and capacity.
“They are stretched and challenged and learn to self manage and take ownership and all this supports them in successfully transitioning into the world – plus they end up with work they can certainly be incredibly proud of. All in all our students find that really fulfilling.
“They all certainly enjoyed the sale and their success. We raised £182 after expenses, which will help us buy materials for future projects and everyone is looking forward to our next showcase in the summer.”
Pictured: Loughborough College Transitions students at the successful woodwork showcase (from left) Antony McKerry, Mark Gutteridge, Shivan Sharma, Christopher Thompson, Jarrod Nel and Christopher Wilbraham