WSG- Wood, Sand and Galvanised Iron
As the title states, these are the ingredients that make up interesting and exciting Year 6 Design and Technology classes. Over the year there are six groups of Year 6 students who work with these media to make 'Wooden Pen Holders', 'Sand Model Vehicles' and 'Metal Spinners'. Each group has 12 weeks to finish these tasks. These boys leave the comfort of their classroom and enter a new and challenging environment - the D&T Workshop. For many boys it is the first time that they will use a drill press, tenon saw, tin snips or an engineering square. Other boys may have already have had some workshop experience from their brothers, fathers and grandfathers. Safety however is a priority for all students and staff and so each group has to complete a 'Safety Induction Worksheet' and sign a 'Safety Agreement' together with their parents before they are allowed to use any tools or equipment.
An excursion to Swanbourne Beach gives students the opportunity to work in small groups to build a 'Sand Model Vehicle' based on their own design. It is not only a great team building exercise, but also the highlight of the course. The sentimental favorite is, however, the 'Metal Spinner' which is the last task that also marks the end of the 12-week course. All task related materials including videos, pictures and work samples can be accessed through the Year 6 D&T WIKI created to support students in their learning and inform parents about their sons' hands-on experiences in this course. Without a doubt this course has one thing in common with all other classes taught at Scotch - it prepares boys for life.
Michael Hess
Year 6 Design &Technology Teacher
