Here are some common ways schools and colleges timetable Smart Product Design and Manufacture and 3D Printing into the curriculum
In some cases academies offer an intensive 1 year programme to give students an additional Level 2 qualification. For schools considering this option, we recommend you discuss this with us to ensure students have the necessary groundwork and time to complete the course successfully.
Academies can introduce the Level 1 SPDM programme in KS3 which would build a solid foundation of skills for progression to KS4. The Level 1 course is based around a series of mini-projects which can be timetabled into a carousel.
University Technical Colleges (UTCs) Timetabling
Some UTCS including UTC Cambridge run extended enrichment programmes where students are set Challenge Projects. BCA’s 3D Printing Awards are used in these cases as an additional qualification to give students credit and recognition for their additional achievements.
UTCs have an unique opportunity to offer technically rigorous qualifications. BCA’s SPDM and 3D printing courses are a natural fit.
Free Schools Timetabling
Unlike UTCs or Academies, many Free Schools may not have dedicated D&T rooms or specialist teachers in SPDM skills. In those situations, BCA can provide a regular CPD programme for non-specialist teachers to ensure all the skills in SPDM are covered and there is consistency in teaching across the school. We can also recommend 3D printers and CAD software which are flexible to deploy in any classroom in order to fulfill the design and prototyping aspects of the course.
International Schools Timetabling
Many international schools including GEMS Wellington College in Dubai run extensive after school clubs. 3D Printing is ideal in those situations and timetabled as a part of a broad after school enrichment offer. BCA can provide all the course resources and teacher training required.
Further Education Colleges (FEs) Timetabling