A TECHNOLOGY teacher and his son have teamed up to help make dozens of face protectors to help frontline workers during the pandemic.

Stuart McCain, head of technology at Colchester Royal Grammar School, decided to do his bit to help get personal protective equipment (PPE) to those who need it.

Alongside son Albert, a student at Colchester Sixth Form College, he has been making protective masks to distribute to frontline NHS and care workers.

The Government has come under intense pressure to speed up the supply and distribution of PPE to frontline workers.

There have been reports across the country of NHS staff making improvised masks out of snorkels and using school science goggles to protect themselves to protect themselves from the virilant infection.

Unions are demanding the Government does more to protect NHS care and key workers by providing them with adequate safety equipment as they fight on the frontline against coronavirus.

Mr McCain is working with Essex County Council’s social care team to help distribute the masks.

He said: “A lot of design and technology departments across the country are doing their bit to help with the call for PPE.

“Originally the calls have been for 3D printers which schools tend to have.

“From my point of view, we have a stock of material and it just seemed unholy to leave it and not do anything when there was a need for it.

“What we are producing is a drop in the ocean of what is needed but nevertheless it is getting up and having a go and trying to do our bit.”

The duo began work on their visors last week and have returned to the workshop to carry on this week.

Mr McCain added: “My son, Albert, was very happy to step up and come and help me with a prototype.

“We wanted a face visor which would be light, comfortable, usable and repairable if needed.

“We spent a couple of days playing around with things to get something.

“We are going to keep making them until we run out of material and I can’t source any more but it is in very short supply.

“If anybody requires anything or feels face protectors would be beneficial it would be good if we could push some of the products in their direction.”

Mr McCain usually spends his time teaching students about design and technology and knows many feel at a loss during this uncertain time.

“I know this time is hard for our students,” he said. “My job is to teach but I also like doing and if this helps young people to see what they can achieve if they do things that is great.

“My son is amazing for stepping up to do it without question.

“Maybe it will show youngsters they could do something similar.”

Mr McCain and Albert have been heaped in praise since sharing their story on social media.

Colchester Royal Grammar School thanked the pair and described them as “representing the very best of CRGS”.

If you work in the health or social care sector and want help from Mr McCain email smccain@crgs.co.uk.