STEAM* is all about being innovative, creative and entrepreneurial and our Year 9 digital technologies students guided by teacher Callie Ballara have come up with a really creative way to support the Marsden Gala on Sunday.

Using 3D software Tinkercad and one of our 2 x Upbox 3D printers, students had to literally think outside the box to make a plant pot for the Garden Stall. Not only did they have to figure out the intricacies of thinking and designing in 3D they had to consider the practicalities as well - like how to put a hole in the bottom of the pot. Seeing it all translate in the printing process, which takes about 10 hours per pot, is a really thrilling moment and we think their pots are absolutely amazing - well done girls!

Finished design by Josephine Morrison

We are also fortunate to have assistance from Technology teacher aide, Maddy Hazelton, who is a young Marsden Old Girl in her third year of Industrial design at Victoria University of Wellington. In 2016 she was awarded first place in a Victoria International brief to create a unique 3D printed gift. Her piece was inspired by the rocks of the Waikanae River and features three small bowls that stack into one another, and look like carved wood. Maddy is overseeing the lengthy process of printing our girls' flower pots (10 hours per pot).

Technology teacher aide, Maddy Hazelton oversees the 10 hour 3D printing process

Head of Technology, Sarah Wirth, says "Technology students are learning the inventive and resourceful skills to take them into the future and that's cool!"

*STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths