‘The Big Bang Woodwork Award’ is a new annual award presented to a teacher/practitioner – to recognise and celebrate their exceptional dedication and commitment to embedding woodwork within their early childhood provision.
This years winner (2023) is Yvonne Young of Our Lady’s Primary School & ELC in Stoneyburn, Scotland. To establish woodwork it takes considerable effort, setting up an area, collecting the tools and sourcing an ongoing supply of wood and materials, and supporting children as they gain confidence. Yvonne has done just this making woodwork regularly available to her children and encouraging woodwork throughout the school. The results have been far reaching, with children really flourishing at the woodwork bench, building core dispositions and skills, as well as building self-esteem and confidence. The woodworking experience has also supported their learning and development across an array of curriculum areas.
Yvonne is a passionate Froebelian who really believes in the value of rich hands on experiential learning – Learning through doing. She is also a highly committed teacher, always furthering her own learning as well as sharing her knowledge and inspiring other teachers. Quite simply a star- Congratulations Yvonne!
