Since early last term, our Year 4/5 students have been working through a Technologies unit exploring the impact that fad toys can have on our planet.

We began by investigating where different materials come from and what happens to them when we no longer want them. Students were surprised to discover just how long some materials can remain in the Earth before they decompose. This led us to think more carefully about the things we buy, how long we use them for, and what happens when they are thrown away.

Rather than simply talking about more sustainable choices, we decided to experience what it takes to make something ourselves. Students began learning skills traditionally used to create handmade toys, including sewing, whittling and working with clay. Then came the most important part of the design process, finding out who they were designing for.

Each student interviewed a younger buddy from our Friday playgroup, Reception or Year 1 classes. Through a survey, they collected information about their buddy’s interests, favourite colours, likes and preferences. They then interpreted this data and used it to plan a toy especially for that child.

Once their designs were complete, students created their own materials lists and then it was my turn to go shopping! With their requested materials in hand, the challenge was underway.

Some students carefully folded, shaped and moulded polymer clay, quickly discovering that creating something by hand takes patience, effort and persistence. Others were busy replaying my step-by-step sewing videos, learning how to thread needles, stitch pieces together and problem solve when things didn’t quite go to plan.

Students then designed their own wrapping paper, thoughtfully personalising it to reflect their buddy’s interests and preferences. They also wrote a handwritten letter explaining what they had created, why they had designed it, and reflecting on the new skills they had learnt throughout the process.

Finally, it was time to give their handmade gifts to their buddies. The smiles on the faces of both the younger children receiving their gifts and the older students giving them were priceless. What began as an opportunity to learn new practical skills and understand why we need to be more conscious of our tendency to buy, use and throw away, became so much more.

Throughout this project, I saw persistence, empathy, care, resourcefulness, pride and connection.

Our students didn’t just make toys…They made something with purpose, for someone they had taken the time to know and understand and discovered just how much value something can hold when it is made with their own hands.