Report – Skill Education
Work with Machines and Materials
Date –13th April, 11th June, 27th June and 8th August,2026
Class – Std VIII
“The expert in anything was once a beginner who refused to give up.” — Helen Hayes
Skill Education sessions were conducted for the students of Std. VIII under the theme “Work with Machines and Materials” to provide them with practical exposure to basic tools, materials, and woodworking techniques while fostering creativity and hands-on learning.
The first session began with an introduction to the tools, materials, and essential safety measures required for working with wood. Students were guided on the safe and correct use of cutting tools, including proper grip, control, and handling techniques to prevent injuries. Safety gloves and goggles were provided, and emphasis was placed on following safety precautions throughout the activities.
- In the first session students designed and created wooden keychains by cutting wooden sheets. They carefully transferred their designs onto wooden sheets and used appropriate tools to cut, shape, and smooth the wood according to their chosen patterns.
- In the second session they participated in another woodworking activity in which they measured, cut, sanded, and assembled wooden pieces to create functional and attractive pen stands.
- The children enjoyed making simple and useful items of their choice in their third session, such as keyholders, trays, and other small wooden products. Since they had been learning and practicing these skills over several sessions, they were able to work with greater confidence, and independence.
- The session concluded with an enriching field trip to a furniture workshop, where the children had the opportunity to observe the complete process of making a cupboard from scratch. The workshop owner explained and demonstrated each stage of the process, beginning with measuring and cutting MDF sheets, followed by edge banding, assembling the different parts, fixing hinges, and finally putting everything together to create a complete cupboard. The children were fascinated to see how the skills they had been learning in their sessions were applied on a larger and more professional scale.
Under the guidance of their instructors, students carefully followed each step of the process while applying the skills they had learned. While some preferred simple and elegant designs, others experimented with unique shapes, patterns, and decorative elements.
Through these activities, they developed practical skills such as precision, craftsmanship, spatience, and effective use of simple tools and materials.
Overall, the Skill Education sessions successfully blended learning with creativity and practical application. The activities provided students with valuable hands-on experience, enhanced their confidence in working with simple machines and materials, and encouraged innovation while creating useful wooden products.
-Amruta Nayak
