Dunraven School case studies
Volunteer Paul and Reche work together
Jack, 13
“I am getting new communications skills and learning skills for the future. Words for Work lets us communicate in formal and social settings. I’ve enjoyed the presentations and designing and making the product. That was the best bit because it was difficult thinking of stuff at first but then it flows. It’s always different – always changing. It’s enjoyable, practical and hands-on. The volunteers brought a lot to the table. They improved our communication and refined it. I am a better communicator now. I could do bigger things and go further. I know what to do, I’ve learnt techniques and tips. Writing advice for other people helped. It built on skills I had. Communication skills were there, team working, listening to others. It will help with work experience next year and jobs. And it helps me get points across.I think communication should have been in the curriculum. Speaking and listening is important because it helps get points across, make yourself understood, influence others and communicate.”
Reche, 14
“It teaches me how to be a better communicator. It lets me interpret what people are saying. I’ve enjoyed everything – it’s a good project. The best bit was making a product (mine’s a wrist phone).Normally just listening and writing, sitting down. Words for Work involves thinking, speaking and working. Working with the business volunteers gives me inspiration. I have to act more professionally. Now I am more confident. Before, I wouldn’t have done this interview but now I can communicate better.I am now speaking louder and more clearly. I know body language makes up most of communication. My vocabulary has improved. The skills I’ve learnt will make it easier to get where I want to be.”
Michaela, 14
“From Words for Work, I’m learning how to use good communication and how to use right amount of tone, verbal and non-verbal communication and teamwork. I’ve enjoyed working with NLT and UBS volunteers. They give good ideas and tips on how to act in a presentation. The best bit was making the poster and the product (a communication robot that turns bad communication into good communication). We work more as a team than we do at normal school. We come together and bring good ideas. We’re in control of our own work. It’s interesting working with business volunteers. Normally, you’d be stereotypical and expect them to be strict but they’re actually fun. I’ve learnt how to have good communication. The research and the volunteers’ help have helped me. I’ve learnt about tone. I don’t get frustrated when people don’t listen anymore. The skills I’ve learnt will help me if I need to do any more presentations and in my daily life. People will listen to me. Yes, you need good communication. If you’re taught late, you’re stuck in your old ways. Need to carry on with Words for Work messages. If you’re in a conversation, speaking and listening helps it go well. And it helps build good friendships.”
