Our ‘Meet the Team’ series aims to highlight the exceptional staff and volunteers who work hard to make Camphill School Aberdeen the wonderful place that it is. Next up in our ‘Meet the Team’ series is Joe McVey, Estate Workshop Leader on Murtle Estate.

How long have you worked at Camphill School Aberdeen?

I’ve just hit the one-year mark at Camphill School Aberdeen – it’s flown by!

How did you first hear of the role and Camphill School Aberdeen?

Before starting my current role, I worked for Camphill Wellbeing Trust’s Compass Project as a Gardener for around 18 months. This was the first time I’d come across Camphill School Aberdeen and the work they do.

When my contract at the Camphill Wellbeing Trust was coming to an end, someone pointed out the Estate Workshop Leader role to me. I applied and got the job!

What is your role at Camphill School Aberdeen and what does it consist of?

Most days I host two workshops – one in the morning and one in the afternoon. In my workshops, I work with the young people to carry out various maintenance tasks around the estate. This includes chopping firewood, weeding, planting, clearing leaves, and we’ve recently been digging drainage trenches.

I also take a group once a week to Camphill Estate to help them with any work they need support with.

Carrying out this work is important for the young people as it gives them ownership of their environment. For our residential students, they’re often cleaning up the grounds around their homes, creating pride around where they live.

The estate work is also beneficial as the young people can clearly see the difference they’ve made to their surroundings, creating a sense of purpose.

Are there any highlights that stand out to you during your time at Camphill School Aberdeen?

The best part of my role is seeing the growth in the young people I work with. Seeing individuals engage with the work, who perhaps were apprehensive or lacking confidence initially, is fantastic. During my time here, I’ve really seen the young people begin to trust me and that truly is an amazing feeling.

When complete, how much of a difference will the Building Futures, Transforming Lives capital appeal campaign make to children, young people and their families at Camphill School Aberdeen?

I think Murtle Market will make a huge difference to the lives of the young people at Camphill School. It’ll allow them to develop skills that they’ve otherwise not had the chance to explore previously. Every young person will be involved, either directly or indirectly, so the benefits will be widespread.

It’ll also be great for the young people to engage with and meet the local community - and vice versa!

When not at work, how do you enjoy spending your time?

Out of work, I still spend a lot of time outside. I enjoy gardening, completing DIY projects in my home, planting trees, and relaxing with a book.

Find out more about our onsite workshops here.