Learning new skills

Our son Alex has always enjoyed making and building things, and figuring out how things work. So as part of his 10th birthday present last year we promised him some technology classes. I had been eyeing them up for a number of years, but they’re not as cheap as other homeschool activities and it’s hard to sign one kid up to something and not the others! So the birthday present idea worked a treat.

He finally started attending classes at the beginning of this term, and has now had 3 or 4 sessions. He is absolutely loving it! There are only 3 kids in the class, which is taught in a well set-up garage in Papakura. His teacher, Mr Bassett, is a lovely man who used to teach technology classes in an intermediate school and he seems incredibly patient and encouraging.

Alex has nearly finished his first project, a nightlight. In the making of it he has done woodwork, painting and some electronics too. The first day I came back to pick him up, I was impressed (and if I’m honest, slightly alarmed!) to see Alex using some kind of electronic saw equipment with close supervision by Mr Bassett. He is learning skills that we wouldn’t have the ability or necessary equipment to teach him at home. It’s so amazing what activities are on offer for homeschoolers, even during these restrictive times. Money well spent!