Little Tradies’ official first term! Term 2 came and went before we knew it. Although we had run the pilot in November 2018 and we were confident in our offering, there is always a sense of trepidation with anything new.

However, we started the term with 24 enrolments some from within our direct network but most from outside our network; this is always a good sign of measurement that we were onto something different.

The term started with the introduction of some of the basic tools of the trade – hammer, screwdrivers, tape measures, and by week 4 some had picked up a handsaw. Each child received their very own toolbox and tools, which have been designed and manufactured specifically for little hands.

Under the guidance of Steve and Phill coupled with the direct support of Beverley, the kids were off to a flying start. The first project was building their very own “Bob” the Robot, providing them with the opportunity to introduce their own creativity by adding variations to the final piece.

The main term project was the multi-purpose “Carpenters” stool aka “Henry”. The stool allows you to stand on, sit on and/or carry your toolbox plus you can use it as a place to saw pieces of timber on; very easy yet effective use of some basic building skills – measuring, sanding, screw driving and some carving of a handle.

As a side note, we were delighted with the opportunity to appear in the Mosman Daily, Kidspot.com.au and as an exhibitor at St Ignatius’ (Riverview) Careers night in May.

Overall, it was a great first term for Little Tradies and one I know the instructors, coordinators and kids really enjoyed!