On Tuesday 8th October, the engineering experts from CREATE Education came into school. They worked with some of our fantastic Yr9 students to help develop their skills and knowledge in 3D printing.

Students were given a special workshop that involved making and launching rockets. They explored the concepts of propulsion and aerodynamics using free online software (https://www.onshape.com/en/) to create rocket parts that they then tested out using effervescent tablets and film canisters to create propulsion. 

 

Students gained insights into the growing industries that use 3D printing technology and how the future might look. Mark, who works in the field of aerodynamics and motorsport spoke about how 3D printing is changing the world: “Imagine a world where the items that we buy aren’t taking up space in shops or sitting in huge warehouses or having to be transported by gas-guzzling lorries. Instead, imagine those products as files on people’s computers, that, when you go to a shop, get printed out on a 3D printer ready for you to take home. This is what the future might look like!”    

 

Caroline, an expert engineer who works with a number of companies including BAE said “One of the coolest things about this technology is that it’s available to everyone for free so anyone can learn this wherever they have an internet connection! What’s even more exciting is that there are huge ‘skills gaps’ in this field at the moment, so if young people can develop these skills, it opens the doors to a whole range of exciting, well-paid jobs!” Caroline was also impressed at the level of skill the students demonstrated in using the 3D design software, commenting that “This has got to be one of the best design technology departments in the North West!”  

 

Both of our visitors commented on how impressive the students were and how well they conducted themselves during the day. Mr Donnison and Mr Cassidy were both very proud of the students who took part. Mr Donnison commented that “the students involved were absolutely brilliant! They were engaged, enthusiastic and just a brilliant example of what we’re trying to achieve in the Technology department.” Well done Yr9! You are a credit to our school community!