This term, Year 6 have been developing their Computer-Aided Design (CAD) skills as part of their Computing curriculum using Tinkercad. From the very first lesson, excitement filled the classroom as we began exploring the world of 3D design. No one was more excited than Miss Allen, who was eager to put her new 3D printer to work!

We started by learning the fundamental skills needed to create 3D models. The children learned how to view their workspace from multiple angles, combine 3D shapes, cut holes, and hollow out objects. These essential techniques formed the foundation for all of the projects that followed.

Our first challenge was to design and create personalised name tags. However, there was a twist – we were not allowed to use the text tool! Instead, the children had to construct each letter of their names by carefully grouping and regrouping shapes using the skills they had just learned. The results were fantastic, and Miss Allen was incredibly impressed with the creativity and perseverance shown by everyone.

Building on these skills, the children then tackled a more advanced challenge: designing movable 3D objects that could be printed in place with no assembly required. This required careful planning and attention to detail. The children had to ensure that the connected parts were close enough to work together but not touching, which meant constantly checking their designs from every angle and making precise adjustments.

Next, Year 6 put their design skills to the test by creating their own desk tidies. Using everything they had learned so far, they designed practical and personalised organisers, demonstrating both creativity and problem-solving skills.

For their final project, the children designed seats for their desk pets – although many would agree that these creations were more like thrones! The finished designs showcased just how much the children had progressed throughout the unit, combining technical skill with imaginative flair.

One of the most exciting aspects of the unit was seeing our digital designs transformed into real objects through 3D printing. Watching their creations come to life was a memorable experience for the children and brought an extra level of excitement and purpose to their learning.

A very special thank you goes to Mr Yiu, Miss Allen’s former Teaching Assistant, for generously donating the 3D printer. His kindness has helped bring this unit to life and provided the children with an unforgettable opportunity to see their ideas become reality. The children have thoroughly enjoyed every moment of the project, and we are incredibly grateful for his support.

The children were incredibly enthusiastic about the project, and many created work at home. Miss Allen was so impressed that she printed some of their creations—fantastic!