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Year 9 Woodwork Class Takes on North Metro TAFE

Our Year 9 Woodwork class recently embarked on an exciting educational excursion to North Metro TAFE. This special day was filled with hands-on activities and insightful tours, providing our students with a glimpse into the world of trades and craftsmanship.

Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted by a senior lecturer with an impressive background as both a cabinet maker and furniture polisher. He guided us through the day’s itinerary, starting with an informative tour of the furniture polishing area. Here, our students observed current TAFE students working on various projects, learning about the diverse finishing skills taught in the course, and seeing the professional-grade equipment in use.

The highlight of the day was a practical project where each student was given a pre-prepared timber shield. Under expert guidance, our students learned to:

  • Use a Trim Router: Craft intricate shapes on the edges of their timber pieces.
  • Experiment with Stain Colours: Create vibrant patterns or achieve a uniform stain on the timber.
  • Apply a Water-Based Finish: Brush on a hard, fast-setting finish to protect their work.
  • Polish with Wax: Use steel wool and a rag to achieve a smooth texture, pleasant fragrance, and lustrous finish.
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In the afternoon, we explored the woodworking department, witnessing a range of courses from pre-apprenticeships to students in action who are nearly trade-qualified. This gave our students valuable insights into the educational pathable for those passionate about woodworking.

We also visited the glazing department, where the instructor introduced us to different types of glass and their applications. Our students were fascinated by the demonstrations of glass cutting and polishing techniques.

Insights from Craig Jordan, Woodwork Teacher

What do you hope the girls took away from the day?

I hope the girls gained a deeper understanding of the opportunities for futrade educationtrades. They saw firsthand that the tools and machines we use in our workshop at Santa Maria College are similar to those in professional settings, although ours are on a smaller scale. Importantly, they recognised that the safety protocols and work techniques we emphasise at school are identical to industry standards.

How does this excursion align with the Year 9 woodwork curriculum?

This excursion reinforced many skills and practices within our curriculum. It highlighted the importance of attention to detail and accuraare essential for crafting high-quality products. The experience also underscored our commitment to fostering creativity and innovation, inspiring students to realise their potential in design and craftsmanship.

Below, Year 9 student Isla shares some valuable insights about the excursion!

What was your favourite part of the excursion and why?

My favourite parts of the woodwork course at TAFE were the campus tour, the project we got to take home, and our teacher, Gazza. The campus tour was exciting and showed us all the tools and additional opportunities that were on offer. I loved working on the project and being able to bring it home to show my family. Gazza was an amazing teacher/guide. His enthusiasm and advice made learning fun and helped us improve our skills. Overall, it was a great experience!

Did you learn any new skills or techniques that will help you in your woodwork?

During the workshop, I learned how to use a router and seal and polish the wood. My favourite part, though, was adding my own design by staining the wood in the colours of my choosing. Seeing the finished piece come to life with my personal touches was exciting.

 

  • Featured, North Metro Tafe, Santa's Workshop, Woodwork

Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation.  Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world.  Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD.  We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.

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