Teenagers provide Priory School makeover

The pupils created a giant ‘geometric’ mural as well as constructing an enterprise hut from which items can be sold for charity.

Katie Bourner, 12, who worked on the ‘Proud to be Priory’ mural, said: ‘The mural is designed in the colours of the year groups ties. I’m very proud of what we have created and it’s great to know that this will be here after I have left school.’

The Volunteer It Yourself Project, which is sponsored by Wickes, saw 60 students gain skills in traditional trades such as joinery and painting and decorating.

Lily Sanderson-Snare, 13, said: ‘This is the first time I’ve ever done anything like this. I much prefer physical practical work rather than being in the classroom.’

The new enterprise hut is to be used to sell products to raise money for prom and to support charity events such as the school’s Blue Day which raises money for the Tom Prince Cancer Trust. Pupils were involved in setting the foundations, constructing the hut and ensuring it was painted and waterproofed.

Lucy Drew, 13, commented: ‘This morning has been great fun. I’ve particularly enjoyed the painting and being out of the classroom doing something different. It’s also really satisfying to know that the hut will be a permanent feature at the school.’

Supporting the pupils were Volunteer It Yourself mentors.

Dan Mann, who was teaching the students construction skills, said: ‘Not everyone is academically minded and this project opens students eyes to trades and careers they can become involved in. This country needs more joiners, plumbers and plasterers. It’s great to see the girls enjoying it as much as the boys.’

It’s a sentiment echoed by head teacher, Stewart Vaughan, who said: ‘As a school we need to provide experiences which go beyond the classroom. We need to educate students on all the fantastic careers which are out there which aren’t always immediately academic.’

It’s a message which students have taken on board.

George Bannister, 13, said: ‘Today has opened up new possibilities and I am definitely considering joinery as a career.’

Wickes provided all the materials, paint and tools used in the project.