The eight-week class, run by the Values in Care team, teaches the people we support for learning disabilities, how to become handy with a saw, plane and chisel. One of the group, Stephen Fry, wanted to make a wooden version of his favourite TV star – Mr Bean! Other timber robots included Harry Potter, Batman, Bertie Bassett and Sonic The Hedgehog.
Stephen said he loved making his Mr Bean character and that woodwork was one of his favourite hobbies. He said:
“I love Mr Bean, he’s so funny – I made my robot for my Mum, woodwork is great.”
Design and Technology teacher Karen Trevelyan-Sharpe leads the woodwork class. Karen said:
“Woodwork is always a popular activity down here at the Hub. We have a wonderful facility, and all the equipment people need to get truly creative! We gave the people we support for learning disabilities, like Stephen, the choice as to what they wanted to make and they all leapt at the idea of robots. We’re so proud of their finished efforts, I think they look absolutely superb.”
Values in Care have always placed great emphasis on providing support for those with learning disabilities and helping them to develop skills, interests and capabilities, this philosophy continues through the Vocational Services. The team of tutors create structured programmes, personal to each person and appropriate to their developmental and aspirational needs. This professional, focussed approach enables the team to capture the enthusiasm and aspirations of individuals in a way which encourages personal achievement.
