Year 10 students from Rushden Academy have teamed up with Northampton College to work on a community project linked to their school allotment.
The experience gave students the chance to step into a college environment and learn practical skills in both carpentry and painting.
Students worked in the carpentry workshops at the College’s Booth Lane campus to build bird boxes and wooden planters. They learned how to safely use tools, measure materials accurately, and assemble their designs with guidance from college staff – providing them with the opportunity to develop hands-on skills and understand the basics of construction.
Alongside this, students also took part in painting and decorating activities. After building the items, they stained the wood to protect it from the weather and ensure it would last in the school allotment. They then used stencils to add creative designs, making each bird box and planter unique.
The finished pieces will be placed in the school’s community allotment, helping to create a more welcoming environment for both wildlife and students. Bird boxes will encourage local wildlife, while the planters will be used to grow plants and vegetables.
For more information about courses available at Northampton College from this September, visit www.northamptoncollege.ac.uk
