28 April 2006

Newport Schools Challenged to ‘Make Wood Work'

Newport based Premier Forest Products, one of the UK's leading timber importers and suppliers, is setting a challenge to the High Schools of Newport to ‘Make Wood Work' in a competition being launched this week.

The competition, aptly entitled ‘Make Wood Work', will give High School pupils a chance to create something out of timber that will improve their local environment, such as a piece of street furniture, a modern art sculpture or even a toy for the local playgroup. It is not only an opportunity for students to get their creative juices flowing, but also to win £50 for themselves and £350 worth of design and technology equipment for their school.

To kick-start the competition, which is open to pupils in years 9 to 11, Premier Forest Products will be giving £70 worth of timber to each school that is participating.

Sandra Davies is Head of Design and Technology at St Joseph's RC High School, which is hosting the launch. She said: "This is a great opportunity for High School pupils in Newport to really have a think about their local community and what would improve it. There are so many possibilities when making something out of timber. I'm quite sure that everyone involved will find it a really fun and beneficial experience. The pupils are obviously quite excited about the prospect of winning some money for themselves! We are delighted to be able to host the launch, and very grateful to Premier for the materials they have so kindly donated."

Nigel Williams, a Director at Premier Forest Products, is also very optimistic about the success of the scheme. "We have had a great response from the Schools in Newport since our initial discussions with the schools about the ‘Make Wood Work' competition –it should be great for all involved, and it offers Premier the chance to give something back to the community. We are very much looking forward to seeing what ideas the pupils come up with."

'Make Wood Work' is open for entries from 28th April 2006, and the deadline for submission is the end of September 2006. The awards event will take place in October at the Civic Centre in Newport.

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