Following an inspiring talk on Life Skills Day in March, Darren Joint, of Viking Signs, set all of year 9 a challenge to produce a sign for their website. The students worked in small teams and had to design and draw their sign with an explanation of their rationale for the sign. The signs were judged by Darren and his team at Viking Signs that day and the winning team announced at assembly the next day. Their sign gave an effective message to ensure Walton’s grounds are kept tidy – but Darren liked the clever use of humour and the eye-catching art work.
Well done to the winning team: Mitchell T, Archie T, Dilan B, Rolands I and Flynn T. The team visited Viking Signs Tuesday 10 May and learnt every stage of the process of sign making from placing the order to the final cutting. Flynn said “Working in the factory was not what I expected. Technology plays a big part in the process and I felt confident once shown how to set up the machine.” Mitchell said “ It was a good experience to see how our design was taken from a drawing to produce such a professional sign. It was cool!”
All students had examples of their own sign to bring back. Many thanks to Darren and his team at Viking Signs for an inspiring challenge and the opportunity for a real life experience.
Mrs Etherington, careers leader, said “ It is experiences like this that can be life changing for young people. The opportunity to meet local employers and see how a real business works is immeasurable in terms of the impact it can have for future career choices. The students were a credit to Walton and were so proud of their winning sign!”
