A much loved pair of school dogs are drinking water in style at Bedales Prep, Dunhurst after a Block 2 (Year 8) pupil spent his half term break making them a bespoke feeding station.

Budding product designer George designed and made the feeding station for Leonard and Lulu – affectionately known as Dunhurst’s “pastoral pugs” – after their owner, Senior Academic Administrator Yvonne Fletcher, spotted George’s flair for woodwork and asked him to make a bespoke one for them.

Yvonne explained: “Dunhurst pupils love to visit the pugs throughout the school day, but their water bowl in my office was often knocked over because it wasn’t very conspicuous. When I spotted George’s handmade pet feeding stations via the Dunhurst Art and Design department Instagram account, I was so impressed I decided to commission one. The finished water station looks fantastic and Leonard and Lulu are thrilled with it!”

George, who has been interested in woodwork since he was nine years old, has set up an Instagram account and online shop to showcase his handmade woodwork. He makes and sells a range of items – from hedgehog houses to egg holders – to order.

He said: “I thought it was cool to get the commission, I love using all the workshop tools and am pleased Yvonne loves the look of the finished product and the way it functions.”

Dunhurst Teacher of Design Mark Hales commented: “It’s such a joy to see George’s passion and enthusiasm for designing and making, both in the Design Barn at Dunhurst and at home in his workshop. He shows really flair for the subject, has a wonderful work ethic and I believe will go far in the future.”

Dunhurst Head of Outdoor Work Ryan Walsh, who worked with George on a woodwork project last year, said: "George is a very talented outdoorsman and is always a great help around Outdoor Work. A large lean-to shelter was added to our shed last year, and George took on the project almost single-handedly."

Head of Dunhurst Colin Baty added: “George is wonderful at seeing an opportunity and making the most of it. He is such a creative and thoughtful person and to put such pride into this project but also his entrepreneur skills with his own Instagram and website is wonderful.”

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