The Nelson Waldorf school has once again offered Project Days to the students of grades 6 to 8. Each fall and spring for the past five years, adult mentors from the community have offered a variety of full day workshops to the students. This year students participated in:
• Natural horsemanship with Kristina and Karin Weidemann
• Creative writing with Tom Hardy
• Portraiture with Vivi Harder
• Archery with Inti Valdes
• Model rocket building with Ernie Fidgeon
• Pet care with Birgit Chart
• French cuisine with Daniel Blanchet
• Collage making with Deirdre McLaughlin
Throughout Project Days, community mentors lead the students through an entirely hands-on workshop, sharing their passion and expertise for what they do. At the end of the Project Days, students share examples or demonstrations of what they learned at a full-school assembly.
“I can’t wait until it’s my turn,” said a student in Grade 4 this year.
Project Days began as a way for students to immerse themselves in an area of interest that they might not have the opportunity for otherwise. Teachers also recognize how important it is for adolescents to meet and work with a variety of different adult mentors as they begin their journey into adulthood and explore their individual interests. Project Days are much anticipated each year, by students and adults alike.
“I get just as much out of it as they do,” said Harder, a local artist who offered a workshop on portraiture.
The next Project Days are March 13 to 15. If you have a passion that you would love to share with youth, contact the Nelson Waldorf school: 250-352-6919.