Regulars at our Parkhead Resource Centre in Ashington for adults with learning disabilities had no idea rubbish could be so fascinating, but everyone was engrossed when they took part in a recycling workshop at their Centre.
With the help of videos, a miniature refuse truck, fun activities – and quite a bit of rubbish, too – they discovered what happens to waste when it is collected, found out about food waste and composting and learned all about recycling.
After lots of learning and discussions, it was time to put their knowledge to the test with a few fun quizzes, including guessing which items were recyclable and which were not.
“There were quite a few surprises with the recycling quiz,” said Parkhead manager, Claire Graham. “I think everyone was astonished to find out you can actually recycle aerosol cans.
“We all loved learning about the journey our rubbish takes – from recycle bin to factory to returning back to our supermarket shelves as packaging – and we’d like to say a great big ‘thank you’ to Northumberland County Council officer, Lorna, who made our learning experience so enjoyable.”
Although everyone thoroughly enjoyed the session, Parkhead regular, Robbie Dowel possibly takes first prize for enthusiasm, arriving in his special cap and waistcoat. “His dream job is to be a bin man,” said Claire, “so this was a perfect day for him.”