Young people learning new skills for their future

Children and young people with SEND have been learning about 3D design and digital fabrication, in a series of workshops arranged with schools.

Children and young people with SEND have been learning about 3D design and digital fabrication, in a series of workshops arranged with schools.

The workshops, delivered by FabLab Devon on our behalf, have given students experience of creating their own designs, exploring technology, and developing their skills and knowledge in a supportive, engaging environment.

Students designed and created objects including T-shirts, key rings, and 3D models, bringing their own ideas to life with real world applications.

For many, the workshops were an exciting introduction to computer-aided design (CAD) and digital fabrication, and encouraged students of all abilities to participate, build confidence, and inspire their career interests in fields such as CAD technology and mechanical engineering.

The workshops were delivered in manageable, bitesize segments, allowing students to engage deeply without feeling overwhelmed.

One young person said: 

“I really enjoyed learning about how 3D printers work, and enjoyed making my design and learning how to make it.”

Another described the workshop as ‘amazing’, while others said that it was good to use the software creatively, and that they ‘loved it’.

The schools that have so far hosted the workshops say that they have sparked interest in digital fabrication and related careers, and teachers are discussing how to incorporate more digital and design opportunities into the curriculum.

Some schools are considering adding digital skills to their career guidance programs, and others are planning to introduce industry visits or invite speakers to give students more understanding of career pathways they could pursue.

Some schools have also taken up a bursary offer of funding, which is available as part of our programme to encourage digital skills take-up, to buy equipment such as 3D printers, Lego spike kits and micro:bits, so that they can provide more digital opportunities for students.

Councillor Lois Samuel, the council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for services that support young people with SEND, said:

“Enabling young people to learn and develop their aspirations is a key pillar of our SEND strategy. We want young people to enjoy their learning, to further their knowledge and experience, to have opportunities and be able to follow their aspirations. These workshops have really captured the imaginations of many young people attending, and I’m delighted that schools are doing all they can to bring learning like this alive in the classroom.”