Today’s article is all about how children are given skills through the experiences they are offered. I distinctly remember the way that seeing machines apart and a workspace of tools would be imprinted on me. In my mid-40s, I am realising the need to have this space, of my own. Spending time with my uncle was an important stepping stone in my learning. It was he who taught me to repair bicycles. I swapped my first engine part after he had shown me the way it attached to the block.
Later on, seeing the way a family collegue runs a small unit, supported my ideals, and only now it are showing. I suppose that even after many years, the impressions will eventually come to the surface. My dream of The D-Wing is named after my uncle and its premmise is scaffolded by the gentleman in his unit. The one tool that has given me joy, is that of the vise. This won’t be the only tool to be added to my workshop. My next big purchase will be a sandblaster.
All of this comes to one simple moment in time. That moment is when the impression is handed over to you. I am a strong advocate for children being given the chance to be shown these ideals. If we are only ever throwing numbers and books at them, many will miss the boat and miss out on their true vocation. Foundation subjects are vital, and with time, can bring about skills in many industries. But, if they never see grease, they may never know how hands-on they can be. We need a balance of sorts. A way to make sure that children can see their own success. Not all are destined to be academic. I hope one day that our strength in creation is upheld and at least ventured towards the notions of yesteryear.
