Last updated 15:54, Wednesday, 26 March 2008

PAUL Parkinson is studying joinery at Lakes College as a mature student – and is the first student on the course who uses a wheelchair.

Paul Parkinson: ‘Even though it is such a hands-on course I will be studying pretty much everything the other students cover’

A back injury caused by a motorcycle accident has meant Paul has had to use a wheelchair for around 12 years. He cannot stand for long periods of time, but this has not allowed him to put off pursuing a career in carpentry.

Paul is studying in the same workshop as the other Level 1 students. It has been altered slightly to accommodate his wheelchair and now includes lower work surfaces in several areas and a special toolbox in order to allow Paul to practice his bench skills.

Paul, from Whitehaven, said: “I have always enjoyed making things and since my accident I have been looking for something to do. A friend of mine, who is also studying at the college, dared me to enrol after telling me about his experiences as a mature student.

”Little did he realise I would go through with it! Even though it is such a hands-on course I will be studying pretty much everything the other students cover, apart from scaffolding work, where I will only do the theory as I am unable to do the practical.”

His tutor, Stephen Wilkinson, said: “We made alterations which allowed Paul to be able to work in different areas and feel more included in the class.”

Paul was in almost constant pain for several years until he was put in contact with Dr Shanks at Carlisle hospital. Dr Shanks has prescribed painkillers which give Paul a much better quality of life and allow him to pursue his career in joinery. He continued: “The tutors have been fantastic.

“I hope to continue on to the Level 2 and once I complete that I would like to set up my own business making furniture.”