December 12th 2025

We were joined for the day by Bernadette, who showed us how to create small bunches of greenery using 3–4 sprigs, which we wired together during the morning session. After break, we began attaching these small bunches to our wreath frames, gradually building up the overall shape. The more bundles we added, the fuller and bushier the wreath became. To finish, students added their own choice of decorations, including bows, berries and pine cones.

The students were outstanding throughout the entire process. They listened carefully, persevered when tasks became fiddly or challenging, and demonstrated excellent focus. Bernadette commented on how impressed she was with their work ethic, politeness and enthusiasm to try something new!

 

Class of the week: OAP

It’s been a busy few weeks in the OAP provision, leaving everyone tired but excited for the Christmas break.

Things have been going well, and the OAP programme continues to strive to offer an engaging and positive range of learning opportunities, often outside of the traditional classroom.

Work experience at Rumbles café gives the students opportunities to gain confidence in a busy working kitchen as well as front of house serving customers or using the till. It’s amazing to see the students grow in confidence and ability, and ultimately progress towards being work-ready in this sector (or just more confident in different social contexts). Some students progress towards cooking for the Rumbles staff and students, with others cooking for the paying public. Food hygiene qualifications at Level 1 and Level 2 are also something students are encouraged to work towards achieving.

Fishing is another favourite activity for the lads and one through which to develop functional skills in English, as well as to develop as competent anglers. Come rain or shine, the lads enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the Vicar Water environment, and the excitement of reeling in a roach, perch, bream or carp (when they catch!). As the weather has worsened over Winter, the fish have become harder to catch – but this has been a great way to develop (and challenge) patience and resilience.

The NetResults! Programme with Nottingham Forest Community Trust has engaged the group in valuable PfA workshops, and the coaching and football opportunities have given the lads lots of opportunities to release energy, effort and develop their own skills as players (and team members).

Throw in boxfit sessions, bushcraft and outdoor cooking opportunities as well as visits to a local gym on top of all of the above, it’s clear why everyone is really looking forward to a Christmas break and a chance to rest and recuperate before we go again in 2026!

Congratulations to our top Dojo point scorers:

A big round of applause for Charlotte R at Churchmoor and Owen at Sherbrook - keep being outstanding!

 

Carlton Library Lego Club

Every Saturday

9.30am - 12.30pm

Free drop in session.

Make new friends and enjoy building your own designs – what will you create?
We provide the Lego, just bring your imagination!

For ages 4+, adult supervision required. 
Not suitable for under 4 due to small parts.