On 26 February the Master Turner, John Bridgeman, master turner Stuart Mortimer and Charity Committee Chairman, Colin Field visited Grateley House School in Hampshire. After a warm welcome from the rigours of the journey and the persistent February rain, they walked the short distance to Grateley School.
The school provides residential and day education and training for young people between the ages of 9 and 19. A lathe was placed there, by the Company, a little over a year ago for the use of students and staff. Students come from across the country and all have special needs, most living with Asperger’s or conditions on the Autistic spectrum. The school aims to work to the students’ own individual strengths to give them the best possible preparation for a productive and independent life.
Grately House student, Josh demonstrates his skills on the lathe to Master Col John Bridgeman, and Charity Committee Chairman Colin Field
The visitors were able to spend time with Josh, who has proved quite an enthusiast, creating many objects using the lathe and with fellow student Celine, raised money from the sale of their creations to support their school.
Staff spoke with enthusiasm and appreciation for the opportunities which the bench mounted lathe has given to students. The workshop can be an oasis of calm, if not always quiet, where students can escape from the pressures of their daily lives and at the same time create something very personal, which often serves as gifts for family and friends. A very real achievement.
If you would like further information on Grately House School, please visit their website by clicking here.