Craftspace

Wheelers Lane Technology College worked with Craftspace to discover if learning practical making skills could help the behaviour of a number of boys who had become disenchanted with school. Already following a programme to develop their Social & Emotional Aspects of Learning (SEAL), this small group of year seven and eight boys worked with ceramicist Andrew Tanner to explore if a ‘hands on’ approach to learning could help them re-engage with the education system.

“It was initially very difficult for the boys to take pride in their work and accept praise as many of them were not used to compliments. As the weeks went by, the boys improved their concentration skills and learnt to take more pride in their work”

Lyndsay Powers, SEAL teacher Wheelers Lane Technology College

Andrew built up an excellent rapport with the boys. He showed the boys respect and they were keen to reciprocate. This bond proved essential to the success of the project.

“Because I enjoy these lessons, I make sure I am always on time”

Luke

“During the life of this project the participants attendance rose by 66% while their behavior improved by 67%. This is a phenomenal improvement which not only benefits the individual pupils, it has a positive impact upon the school as a whole.”

Colin Appleton, Deputy Head Wheelers Lane Technology College