Demolition, Stabilisation, Preparation, Construction

Our new Lowestoft beach huts are finally taking shape. I’ve followed their progress with interest. It’s been a long process with 4 stages…

• Demolition – In 2016 the old concrete beach chalets were destroyed; they were unsightly, unsafe, no longer fit for purpose…
• Stabilisation – The cliff behind the beach huts had to be ‘stabilised’. There’s recently been significant erosion to other cliffs nearby…
• Preparation – There’s been preparatory groundwork. Concrete pillars and gabions have been constructed, an upper platform erected…
• Construction – The first beach huts arrived last week, delivered in huge flat-packs. They’re now being built!

Musing… My years in education… How about a similar model for teaching and learning?

• Demolition – Unhelpful facts, unsafe methods, unsightly distractions need to be removed.
• Stabilisation – A child/student must feel secure in themselves and their learning before they can concentrate and learn.
• Preparation – Foundational skills and knowledge must learnt, in place… there must be motivation to learn.
• Construction – It’s only then that new learning can take place… building knowledge, skills and understanding.

So… I can only learn about quadratic equations if my previous learning about basic algebra is correct and secure… To learn about the life and influence of Christopher Columbus I need some correct understanding of the fifteenth century world….

Musing… My years with people, in churches… How about a similar model for character or spiritual development?

• Demolition – For personal or spiritual growth/development I must get rid of unhelpful habits, relationships, influences…
• Stabilisation – I need confidence in positive relationships, emotional and mental security, protection against personal erosion…
• Preparation – Foundational building blocks, personal beliefs, values, need to be laid carefully. Planning that shows what’s being built and where it’s being built is helpful!
• Construction – It’s then that life and character can be carefully, purposefully constructed…

Musing… My Christian faith points to a God who enables the demolition of the unsafe, brings stability, provides a firm foundation; then, (sometimes with help from Christian sub-contractors!) He’s the master builder, seeking to create his masterpiece!