Jacksdale is an open-plan unit, containing a workshop and seated learning areas. Students develop practical skills through the creation of a range of wood products, including clocks, bird boxes & tables, shelves, spice racks, pens and planters.
Most of the materials used are from recycled pallets, so there is no pressure to avoid costly mistakes and no requirement for any prior knowledge or aptitude. Students begin using hand tools and progress to powered tools at their own pace.
Additional activities include pyrography, DIY & maintenance skills, basic electrical
skills (e.g. wiring a plug) and bricklaying in the summer terms. There are also
regular forays to find materials for bug hotels, local walks to identify different
types of structures and brickwork and the odd trip to the park for those
groups who work hard and achieve all of their learning goals.
Most students undertake a BTEC in Construction, including
Maths & English where appropriate. SMSC and AQA Unit
Awards are delivered to all students.