Twenty-first century learning: Rāroa Intermediate and Makerspace NZ
Laser cutters & 3D printers from Makerspace NZ have greatly enhanced the efficiency and creative potential of the school's tech programme
In 2013, Rāroa Intermediate revamped its technology curriculum to better equip students with relevant, real-world skills. Seeking innovative methods and tools to support their vision, the school turned to Makerspace NZ.
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“We were immediately inspired by the learning potential of technologies like laser cutters and 3D printers,” said Chris Bailey, team lead and teacher in industrial design.
“These tools provided exciting new possibilities for the technology curriculum, giving students a more engaging, future-focused learning experience.”
Rāroa Intermediate began with one 3D printer and a small laser cutter, to allow staff and students to gain confidence with the machines. The school has since upgraded to two larger laser cutters, and expanded to a fleet of four 3D printers. Recently, a CNC router has also been added.
“This growth has greatly enhanced both the efficiency and creative potential of our programme.”
Mr Bailey said the Makerspace NZ machines are “instrumental” to delivering the technology programme, enabling students to innovate and expand their design thinking skills. Thanks to Makerspace NZ, Rāroa Intermediate has moved away from “the traditional, cookie-cutter approach to technology education. We can now offer a dynamic, personalised learning experience that truly reflects modern educational priorities.”
Mr Bailey said the machines are used beyond the technology course, even producing items for school-wide purposes like Year 8 leavers’ gifts, awards and medals, and custom signage. Recently, the school’s Enviro Club designed and laser-cut informative plaques for the native trees and plants around school grounds.
Makerspace NZ has been working with Rāroa Intermediate for almost 11 years, with technicians making regular service visits to the school. Marcus Lund from Makerspace NZ said his team is “consistently impressed at the ingenuity and creativeness used by the staff in the application of the digital cutting machines within the technology curriculum.”
Mr Bailey praised the Makerspace NZ team as integral to the success of the revamped technology programme. “Our strong partnership with Marcus, Alice, and the team at Makerspace NZ has been transformative for Rāroa Intermediate. Their consistent support, expert technical advice, and prompt delivery of consumables and replacement parts have made a significant impact on our programme.”
