Transitions students donate finished projects
For some members of Holland College West Prince Centre’s Transitions Group, using saws and drills was a new experience. But they took on the task as a learning opportunity and donated the finished products to the Rev. W.J. Phillips Residence in Alberton. The Transitions Group is made up of Westisle Composite High School students who spend part of their school day at the Holland College Centre in Alberton and visiting job and education sites across the province. During their time at the college they are exposed to a variety of skills, including carpentry. Mentor, Gary Gaudet delivered the carpentry training. Raelene Gallant said the exposure built upon what they might have learned during industrial arts classes in junior high. Part of the exposure is to help the participants decide future career paths, and Gallant acknowledges carpentry might not be the route she chooses. Ben Smallman, however, admits it’s a possibility for him. The angles and cuts were not new to him, though, as he also takes pre-apprentice carpentry in high school. Smallman is eying other possibilities as well, pointing out the exposure has opened his eyes to welding, and he might venture into that field of study, come September. The participants, however, are proud of their completed group projects: a stained boot rack and outdoor bench and a painted outdoor chair, all of heavy-duty construction. They are convinced the projects are built to last. Facility manager, Colleen Parker, thanked the students for their contributions, convinced residents will put the outdoor furniture to good use.