3D Printing

Pupils can experience first-hand the thrill of this exciting new technology!

Full-day workshops with hands-on experience and an introduction to 3D model making and printing using food safe PLA plastic.

Great for STEM learning as uses all four disciplines.

We can bring our printers safely into the class room, explain to the children how it all works and then show them via production of some small examples.

We can show children the basic skills needed to make simple 3D models using freely available software on the internet. We use a computer to connect to the school projector. Children may follow on their own laptops / Chromebooks if available within school.

Basic materials are included but extra charges apply if the school wants the children to make and print their own small objects. Printing of objects will happen after the workshop in most cases.

An introduction to 3D printing & CAD / CAM

Pupils learn how the future of manufacturing has changed completely and that complex shapes can be constructed with freely available software. A presentation (slide show) explains a brief history and outlines some of the great advances and possibilities for this exciting new technology. 3D print and CAD/CAM will surely play a large part in the lives of many students as they get older.

We can supply resources with links to websites that supply free software for the development of ideas in 3D. Find and download existing 3D models or create your own with simple tools and an easy interface.

Please note: Due to the technical nature of the 3D printers we will require a minimum of 30 mins to set-up and calibrate the printers before the first session of the day can begin. See extra requirements below.

You can even create your own 3D models after we have gone by using our print-on-demand ‘HUB’ service – just upload finished models to our hub and get them printed and posted to school at minimal cost! Ask us how.

Workshop requirements: To deliver the full experience we will require the following:

  1. • Two standard sized school tables for the printers and printed 3D object examples.

  2. • A classroom with a projector / smart screen. Access point (VGA / HDMI cable) to connect our computer to the projector, preferably near the tables at the front of class. The same class will be required all day and the pupils come to us.

  3. • Access to power and wifi (for interactive demonstrations of software).

  4. Good Broadband Internet access for all pupils wishing to make their own models.

We recommend that for best exposure to the printer and its wonders each session should be a single class group of no more than 40 pupils and should last a minimum of 45 minutes. We will work with you to ensure we deliver the maximum number of sessions throughout the school day.

DT / 3D printing at Key stage 2

The workshops address all the key criteria for KS2:

Design – research and develop functional and appealing products.

Make – utilise the latest 3D printing technology.

Evaluate- investigate and analyse a range of existing similar products.

Technical knowledge – presentation of the various 3D technologies and their many uses.

Computers – apply their understanding of computing to design and produce their products.

“Teaching of D.T. is based upon the six principles: user, purpose, functionality, design decisions, innovation and authenticity with projects following the cycle of:

Research, explore and investigate existing products

Learn and develop skills, using a range of tools, techniques, materials and components safely

Develop ideas

Make (with continuous evaluation and adaptation and applying their learning from across the curriculum)

Evaluate, according to design criteria.”

Each session will see a short presentation on 3D printing technology and it’s many uses within industry.

They will see a state-of-the-art 3D printer actually produce items in a short while.

Using cloud-based software they will learn how to design and produce items ready for 3D printing.

I will explain how they can have their designs printed cheaply via 3D ‘HUB’ services.

They will also be introduced to several other online resources to further their understanding.

Our new state-of-the-art 3D printer. All fully enclosed and ready for classes.

Recent school feedback:

“Jonathan delivered an outstanding 3D printing workshop for our Year 4 and Year 6 students, making the experience both educational and exciting. The children thoroughly enjoyed learning about 3D design and printing, gaining valuable hands-on skills that sparked their creativity. Staff also benefited greatly from an insightful INSET session, expanding their own knowledge and confidence in using 3D printing technology. Not only did Jonathan teach essential skills, but he also went above and beyond by helping to set up and optimize the school’s own 3D printers, ensuring we can continue the learning journey. A fantastic experience for both students and staff!”

A. Member, Rosetta Primary School.