Consumer Studies Combines Craft, Business, and Sustainability

At Roots Gymnasium, we believe that education should go beyond textbooks. It should inspire creativity, practical skills, and an awareness of sustainability. Recently, Mrs Corlia Krügel helped our Grade 7 Consumer Studies class put these values into action with a hands-on candle-making project that proved both educational and fun.

The learners brought in old candles from home, giving items that might otherwise have been thrown away a second life. In class, they melted the wax down and, with a splash of genius, transformed it into brand-new candles. To add a personal touch, old crayons were repurposed to colour the wax, while a few drops of essential oils brought each creation to life with a warm, inviting fragrance.

But this wasn’t just a craft project, no, it was a lesson in entrepreneurship. By creating new products from recycled materials, our Grade 7s discovered how simple resources can be turned into something marketable. They learned that with creativity, problem-solving, and a little business thinking, one can create sustainable products that appeal to consumers.

Why These Skills Matter

In today’s world, being able to recycle, reuse, and innovate is more than just a hobby; it is a valuable life skill. Projects like candle-making teach learners to think resourcefully, develop an entrepreneurial mindset, and understand the importance of sustainability. These skills prepare them not only for potential future business ventures but also to make environmentally responsible choices in their everyday lives.

By combining creativity with practical application, our Grade 7 Consumer Studies learners have shown that with the right mindset, even the simplest materials can light the way toward a brighter, more sustainable future.