Children’s Woodwork Projects

During my time in a school I have worked with children of all ages, ranging from 4 all the way up to 11 years old, teaching them the basics of woodwork and materials technology and in the process creating some incredible pieces of art they can be proud of.

I am passionate about children being given the chance to express their creativity and engaging in activities they can both enjoy and be successful in. Woodwork is a great skill to learn, especially from a young age, and a way for children to learn a wide range of skills including problem solving, maths skills, physical development and teamwork. One of the significant attributes of woodwork is its capacity to foster a mentality based in self-reliance and sustainability, which stands in stark contrast to the prevalent throwaway culture. As children engage with woodwork - using a variety of natural and manmade materials - they cultivate a 'fix it yourself' ethos, instilling the value of repair and preservation. This ethos not only equips them with practical skills but also nurtures a deeper understanding of the world around them.

It was important for these projects that the children be an integral part of the design process and be given the freedom to develop their own ideas and express their creativity. They collaborated to create a variety of creations ranging from small models to large sculptural pieces and two dimensional artworks that were mounted along the corridor walls to create an art gallery.