Tote-ally Creative with Batik!

On Friday 24th April and Friday 20th March, Year 5 pupils from Rupert House School in Henley-on-Thames visited Leighton Park School for a creative and engaging Batik Wax workshop. 

The group spent the afternoon exploring this traditional textile technique, producing their own unique designs on tote bags. Led by Leighton Park’s Textiles teacher, Debbie Ince, the workshop introduced students to the art of batik, where hot wax is applied to fabric to create patterns before dye is added. Pupils experimented with a variety of tjanting tools, including one affectionately referred to as the ‘ship,’ which allowed them to carefully control the flow of wax as they brought their ideas to life.

The hands-on session encouraged creativity, confidence and resilience, with many students embracing the opportunity to freestyle their designs. Jonny particularly enjoyed “getting to freestyle and doodle,” while Claudia described the experience as “amazing but tricky.” She also found the visit inspiring, especially “looking at other people’s artwork in the school.”

Lilian was equally enthusiastic, calling the workshop “fabulous.” She explained, “I loved this! My favourite part was putting on the wax, because it is very relaxing and once you have put it down you can’t go back.” Her advice to others was simple: “It’s so fun, try and make your shapes BIG!”

Monty's (Year 5) favourite part of the workshop "was the wax and the lunch was a bonus!"

The group spent time exploring the senior school environment and enjoyed lunch in Oakview, where teachers appreciated the chance to catch up with familiar faces, including former Rupert House students now enjoying life at Leighton Park.

Nikki Poulter commented, “We’ve come to the workshop before and it’s fab!” We are looking forward to welcoming the rest of the Year 5s after Easter.

See more photos here

Back to news