Woodwork Workshop
To develop tool use, hand strength, and safety awareness through real woodworking with tools.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Physical Development
- Learning area: Physical Development
- Level: EYFS Reception
Objectives
- Uses hammer with developing accuracy
- Saws with control (supervised)
- Follows safety rules consistently
- Shows significant hand strength
Materials
- Workbench with vice
- Small hammers and nails
- Junior hacksaws
- Screwdrivers and screws
- Soft wood pieces
- Safety goggles
Instructions
TEACHING SAFETY FIRST: Goggles on. Vice holds the wood. Blood bubble around you. Tool down when not in use. These rules are non-negotiable.
DEMONSTRATING HAMMER USE: 'Hold the nail near the top to start. Tap gently to set it. Then hold the hammer further back and swing harder.'
SUPERVISED SAW USE: One-to-one supervision for sawing. 'Long, smooth strokes. Let the saw do the work — don't push too hard.'
BUILDING PROJECTS: Simple projects: a boat, a picture frame, a name plaque. Purposeful woodwork is more engaging than aimless hammering.