Ethan Earley

I volunteered in my Mam's place of work being Scoil Chiarain in Glasnevin. Scoil Chiarain is a special school with children aged 5-18 years who all have been diagnosed with mild/moderate learning disablilities and other complex needs including, ASD, ADHD, epilepsy, down syndrome and others. I worked in the senior area with teens aged 15-18. In the classroom, I helped them with work, cooking in Home Economics and other activities. Outside of the classroom, I have been involved in many trips to Kilkenny, Avondale, the Sugar Loaf, Ikea bowling, and also theatre trips. While on these trips I encouraged students to get involved in the activities and also helped out if they needed any general help. On top of this I was also an extra pair of eyes in case any pupils strayed from the crowd or just needed extra help on longer walks, climbs, hikes, ect. I found it to be a very interesting and engaging experience, assisting those who needed it and making a few friends along the way, both staff and students.

I have also helped out in my Dad's woodwork/construction business. I did many different things assisting in the workshop. I helped clear out part of the workshop and throw out large amounts of warped wood and disassembling old storage units. I also helped clean up the workshop, sweeping up sawdust, cleaning out machines and just generally keeping the place tidy. I managed to cut large pieces of wood for units and was later able to put together many drawers, cabinets and other kitchen units using those pieces of wood. As well as this, I helped when loading up the van full of the assembled units. Overall, I enjoyed the hard and hands-on work. Due to my help, my Dad was able to finish a job in a kitchen with the units I made. It was quite different in comparison with my Mam's job. I enjoyed the physical and mental challenges while also having something to show for my work and be proud of.