Work in the communities is varied and purposeful. It can involve making tables and other woodwork, baking bread and cakes, packing and delivering firewood, helping to make and pack cheese, making jewellery and toys, growing vegetables and fruit, working in shops and cafes, weaving and painting. It can also include more mundane but equally important activities such as helping to cook, clean and otherwise look after the shared houses and social spaces.
Each community will offer different forms of work depending on the skills and resources available. All members of the community are expected to make a contribution and they develop confidence and self-esteem accordingly.
I am enjoying learning to cook for myself.
quoted in Care Inspectorate report, Camphill School Aberdeen (Cairnlee) 2017
I like making things, and we sell them in the shop.
quoted in Care Inspectorate report, Corbenic 2018
Emotionally, people feel secure in a community where they feel they belong and where they feel they are making a contribution. Meaningful work is very important to everyone, and for us work is not restricted to paid employment. Knowing that what you do matters to/is valued by the community contributes greatly to your sense of belonging, but also your own self-worth.
(Name) has been skilfully mentored and his abilities and needs have been met and developed … through the responsibility and fulfilment of a working day specifically designed for him.
quoted in Care Inspectorate report, Loch Arthur 2018
Everyone has an important role to play in the life of the community and each person in Camphill, regardless of their ability level, is encouraged to fulfil their potential. That is part of the reason why people love to come and work at Camphill.
I am good with the cows.
quoted in Care Inspectorate report, Loch Arthur 2018
