HSC woodwork students at Melville High School in South Kempsey have unveiled the fruits of their labour from the past three terms.
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From extravagant bed frames to eye-catching coffee tables, glistening draw units, and jewellery boxes fit for the Queen, the skilled craftsmen of Melville High have astounded their teacher.
“I am very proud of the class and extend to them my congratulations on their terrific projects. They have demonstrated that by combining hard work, determination and creativity they can achieve excellent results,” industrial arts teacher at Melville High John Kassel told the Argus.
As part of the Industrial Technology - Timber HSC course, students were required to design and construct a major practical project from timber and form an accompanying design folio, both of which make up 60 per cent of their HSC mark for the subject.
Student, Tyrone Walker made a beautiful king-sized bed from slabs of cedar and rustic logs. Mr Walker incorporated a series of inlaid dovetail keys to stabilise the checking in the slabs.
Dylan Brewer built an exquisite coffee table in local blackbutt and jarrah wood. The table features two drawers with exposed dovetails, built-up contrasting legs and an intricately inlaid top.
Corey Clarke machined and prepared highly figured hardwood slabs and fashioned them into two tallboy drawer units on castors. The pieces feature eye-catching waney edges and natural timber - a real "bush furniture" look.
But the woodwork is just part of the massive project.
The design folio must document the student's research, planning, management, idea generation, production drawings, prototyping and a record of procedures including safety.
Students also need to evaluate all aspects of their planning, research and practical work.
“While the project must reflect 80 hours of work, many of the students have chosen to work overtime,” Mr Kassel said.
“By planning, managing and communicating their ideas students have not only produced great work but have also been involved with substantial opportunities to find practical solutions to practical problems.
“These are skills they will call upon in life and work in the future. I has been very enjoyable working with this group of students,” he said.