At East Prescot Road, every child is given the opportunity to develop their skills in woodwork by working in our Woodwork Workshop on our campus.

It is more important than ever for the new generation to be able to think creatively and develop problem-solving skills. Woodwork exercises such skills as children make their own choices and learn through trial and error. It sparks creative thinking and imagination, qualities that are at least as important in our changing world as the practical skills gained.

Woodwork encompasses all aspects of learning and development, supporting maths, scientific investigation, physical coordination, language, and vocabulary, so it can be central to your curriculum. Initially, children are taught how to use the tools safely and given opportunity to try techniques in appropriate ways. As they gain mastery, delight and pride give their self-esteem a visible boost. Learning progresses at each child’s individual pace. Once they have mastered the basic skills, they move into open-ended exploration, making unique creations. Now their creative thinking and confidence in problem-solving flourish as they meet and resolve their own challenges.

What are the benefits of woodwork?

Children are empowered by being respected and trusted. They gain confidence and a sense of responsibility when allowed to work with real tools. As they master more tools and techniques, they take pride in accomplishing increasingly complex tasks. This imparts a can-do attitude and provides children with a strong sense of agency and a proactive disposition, as well as the belief that they have the power to help shape the world around them.

Hand-eye coordination is basic to woodwork and children gain increasing control over their bodies as they develop agility and dexterity, manipulative skills, and muscular strength. Woodwork incorporates fine motor skills (holding a nail, screwing) and gross motor skills (hammering, sawing). Children’s core strength is developed as they push/pull (sawing, filing), rotate (using a screwdriver, drill, wrench, vice), lever (using a claw hammer or Japanese nail puller) and rub (with sandpaper). Experience of using tools becomes part of children’s physical “vocabulary”. Children also learn self-care, for instance the importance of protecting their eyes with safety glasses.

Natural conversation occurs among adults and children in the woodwork area. Because wood can be used in countless ways, possibilities are thoroughly discussed. Children’s language for thinking evolves through experience. In the project development stage, children express ideas; dialogue ensues as they reflect and modify their plans. Adults introduce new vocabulary to enable children to discuss their work with greater clarity. Learning to use new tools builds attention skills; children learn to listen carefully in order to understand instructions.

Busy at work.........

Numeracy is integral to woodwork. Children measure pieces of wood; they experience shape and weight. Constructing three-dimensional forms develops their spatial awareness. Adults have ample opportunity to extend children’s mathematical understanding: having them estimate which is the best length nail to use, for example, or how long a piece of wood needs to be for a particular purpose. Many mathematical concepts are related: matching with classification; counting with measuring; comparison with weight and size. Children are fascinated to calculate a tree’s age by counting its rings in cross-section. Be sure to include a wide range of mathematical equipment in your woodworking area (rulers, tape-measures, set-squares, spirit levels).