By Mara Pattison-Sowden
STUDENTS are getting out of the classroom and into the shed.
A hands-on program created by members of Ben’s Shed in Yarra Junction is helping school children gain practical knowledge as well as the support of male role-models.
Woodworking is a trade Ben’s Shed member Ken Moy knows a lot about, and he enjoys passing on his knowledge to students from local primary schools.
“I came in to the shed one day and saw what they were doing and thought I’d like to be a part of that. Passing on my skills means a lot to me,” he said. Mr Moy said he has grandchildren the same age and he just loves the questions and the interaction from the boys.
Millwarra Primary School principal Rod Barnard said his students have been taking part since the program began.
“They just love it. They get engaged in what they’re doing and it’s a nice, blokey environment,” he said.
Last year 72 boys took part in the program from six local schools. It continues to grow and is held for an hour three days a week.
Shed co-ordinator Jenny Hoskins from Eastern Access Community Health said she has seen great inter-generational interaction improving not only trust and experience of the boys but the shed members also. “The men come for different reasons, but you can see their health improves and they take on this incredible outlook on life,” she said.
This week is Men’s Health Week and Ben’s Shed invites interested residents to drop by during the week between 10.30am to 4pm, 2427 Warburton Highway, Yarra Junction.
For more information contact Jenny on 5967 1942.
