At Glasshouse Christian College, the Industrial Technology and Design (ITD) Department continues to provide students with rich, hands-on learning experiences through engaging projects to explore technologies, materials, and systems in a way that not only builds technical competence but also reflects our Christian values of stewardship, excellence, and service. Here is a snapshot of the units students have been studying this year. 

Year 7: Building Foundations with the Steady Hand Game

Our Year 7 Design Technology students have been learning foundational design and construction skills through the creation of a Steady Hand Game. This fun and challenging project introduces students to basic electronic circuits, timber jointing, and finishing techniques. Students also worked with acrylic, learned how to solder and considered the customer through the design process. The project not only encourages fine motor skills and patience but also lays a strong foundation in understanding systems and materials.

Year 8: Designing, Racing, and Learning through CO₂ Dragsters

The Year 8 Design Technologies students have had an engaging term designing, building, and racing their very own CO₂ dragsters. This unit provides a fun and engaging way for students to explore the design process while developing skills in aerodynamics, shaping, painting, and problem-solving. Each student began by sketching and modelling their car design, thinking creatively about how to reduce drag and increase speed. They then brought their concepts to life by shaping their dragsters from balsa blocks, adding paintwork, and finally racing them using compressed CO₂ cartridges. This project encourages both creativity and healthy competition, as students refine their designs through testing and performance analysis. It’s a hands-on opportunity to learn about motion, force, and the importance of precision — all within a supportive and fun learning environment.

Year 9: Illuminating Creativity and Craftsmanship

In Year 9, Industrial Technology students have taken their design and manufacturing skills to the next level with two impressive projects. The Desk Lamp Project makes use of our laser cutter to precisely cut components for the lampshade. Students then assemble their lamps, learning about safe workshop practices in a woodworking environment. Students also used a timber lathe, turning laminated timber blocks into beautifully shaped wooden bowls. This project develops skills in patience, precision, and craftsmanship.

Year 10: From Digital Design to Hands-on Engineering

Our Year 10 Industrial Technology students started the year by learning to use a 3D CAD package to model a footstool. They produced both 3D models and workshop drawings, which were then used by the students to construct the footstools in Term 2. This provided the students with the opportunity to understand how the design and drawing phase of furniture making impacts the production stage of the process.

Meanwhile, Year 10 Engineering students have been introduced to core industry skills such as MIG Welding, turning using a Centre Lathe, and sheet metal construction. Their major project this semester was a cantilever toolbox, developing precision and planning, and helping prepare them for the new Certificate II in Engineering Pathways, which launched this year in Year 11.

The Certificate II in Engineering Pathways course has been a strong addition to our senior offerings, giving students the opportunity to gain a nationally recognised qualification over two years. Students complete theory modules and spend significant time in the workshop using a wide range of engineering machinery to produce products. The feedback for this course has been overwhelmingly positive, with students enjoying the mix of theory and practical work.

Years 11–12: Real-World Applications and Industry Readiness

In Year 11, Industrial Technology students are applying CAD skills to design and draw a stool, which they are now starting to build in our Furnishings Workshop. These projects help students refine measuring, cutting, and assembly skills in a real-world setting.

Our Year 12 Engineering students are currently building a swinging BBQ plate, designed using CAD software and cut using the CNC Plasma Cutter. This project introduces them to Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) and advanced fabrication techniques.

In Year 12 Industrial Technology, students are working on individually designed furniture pieces using advanced cabinet-making techniques. From custom entertainment units to side tables and storage solutions, these bespoke items reflect each student’s creativity and growing skill set.

With the introduction of nationally recognised courses, state-of-the-art equipment, and a continued focus on real-world applications, the ITD Department is not only equipping students with practical skills, we are also committed to nurturing their character and purpose.

Character, Faith and Technical Excellence

As a Christian school, we believe that learning should reflect values such as integrity, creativity, service, and stewardship. Through each project, students are encouraged to approach their work with diligence and excellence, recognising that their talents are gifts from God to be used for the good of others. Whether they are building a piece of furniture, wiring a circuit, or welding a toolbox, students are learning to take care in their work and to use their skills to serve their communities and honour God.

We are incredibly proud of the achievements across all year levels and look forward to seeing how our students continue to grow, not just as capable designers, makers, and engineers, but as young people of strong faith, purpose, and integrity.

Andrew Kirby, Head of Industrial Technology and Design