A shed that was abandoned for over two decades on Moore’s Island is experiencing a remarkable transformation that speaks to the heart of community collaboration and hands-on learning.

A Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) dual enrollment carpentry class of 13 Moore’s Island All Age School students and one adult are assiduously working on repurposing and retrofitting the long-abandoned shed.

Initially, there was a recommendation to raze the shed. However, carpentry instructor Nathaniel Hield, suggested it be converted to a fully functional carpentry workshop, crucial for enhancement of the BTVI Moore’s Island Instructional Centre. The centre is located at the island’s school and is preparing for BTVI’s institutional-wide Council on Occupational Education (COE) accreditation. It will not just create a space for learning, but real-world opportunities for the students.

An unexpected twist in the project came when contractor, Claude Vilburn, decided to go beyond just offering his expertise. He generously donated hardy board, plywood and materials required to fortify the shed.

BTVI part-time Programme Coordinator, Carlotta Simms said Mr. Vilburn’s contributions are greatly appreciated.

“This project wouldn’t have come this far without the support of our local community members. It’s a true testament to when we work together, we can accomplish great things,” said Ms. Simms.

Initially, carpentry classes were held in a traditional classroom setting. However, with ongoing noise and dust pollution, the makeshift classroom environment was deemed potentially non-compliant for COE accreditation.

Ranging from ages 14 to 17, the dual enrolment students include Maxwell Burrows, Dayshon Jones, Scottie McBride, Melrose Davis, El’Leenya Stuart, Martinique Armbrister, Trenair Gray, Kevin McKenzie, Natario Sturrup,  Kevin McKenzie, Eric Gibson, Azariah Stuart and Da’Ria Stuart.

Once a library and a tuck shop, the shed sits on land belonging to the late Sheva Jones. Jones’ daughter, Joanne Jones, is a Moore’s Island native, who graciously donated the space for the project. She has also been involved in the work as the only adult in the BTVI carpentry class.

The shed that is currently 12’ x 20’ will be 12’ x 30’ by the end of the project. Carpentry student, Dayshon Jones, spoke of some of the skills he has learned thus far.

“It is interesting. I didn’t know how to shingle a roof. I learned how to measure and cut wood and how to use power tools including circular saws,” said Dayshon.

The 11th grader, who wishes to be an engineer, said he is aware that he is helping to build the school and community at large.

“It makes me feel good because eventually I will pass the finished shed and know I helped to build this for future students,” he added.

Mr. Hield said Dayshon and his classmates are learning to effectively use hand and power tools.

“They are learning DIY on a professional level from framing a building to installing and pasting drywall. They also learn how to repair damaged concrete flooring, removal and replacing of shingles and putting on ice and water shields,” said Mr. Hield.

Mr. Hield said he hopes the work being done on the shed would be expanded to the point where people throughout the Moore’s Island community would include the students in construction projects.

Ms. Simms is inspired to see the students engaged in the project and to watch the shed come to life.

“I know that the students are feeling proud about themselves as they look at their efforts. It’s exciting to see an old shed that was once considered an eyesore being transformed by the students,” she stated.

BTVI’s Dual Enrollment Carpentry students on Moore’s Island include Melrose Davis (l) and Scotte McBride (r).

A group of students from Moore’s Island All Age School are also Dual Enrollment Students, studying carpentry at BTVI. From left to right are Maxwell Burrows, Dayshon Jones, Joanne Jones, Scottie McBride, Melrose Davis, El’Leenya Stuart, Martinique Armbrister, Trenair Gray and Kevin McKenzie. Missing are Natario Sturrup, Kevin McKenzie, Eric Gibson, Azariah Stuart and Da’Ria Stuart.

Moore’s Island All Age School students, who are a part of BTVI’s Dual Enrollment Programme in Carpentry, work on a once abandoned shed that will become their workshop.