At the end of last half term, our students participated in an engaging workshop featuring 3D-printed tactile diagrams. They explored materials designed by George Rhodes for the National Archives project in March, alongside a variety of diagrams related to Science, Maths and Mobility. Among the highlights was a tactile representation of a Canadian bus station, which sparked significant interest as well as intricate diagrams of leaves.

Natalie found the experience particularly inspiring. She was captivated by all the diagrams, especially a house plan that she deemed invaluable for understanding how tactile diagrams can aid navigation in unfamiliar spaces. So engrossed was she that she left later than planned—our apologies to her mum!

Miss Potter was drawn to the calligraphy on Medieval Bibles and a Tudor payslip, marvelling at how 3D printing opens doors to materials that are typically inaccessible to individuals with vision impairments. 

In the afternoon, George and Maria met with staff to discuss further applications. Mrs Kings was thrilled to see how one of her favourite paintings by Gustav Klimt could be adapted into an accessible format, sparking new ideas for her students.

We are excited to be sourcing our very own 3D printer and we will be fundraising for future associated costs. The printer will allow us to create bespoke tactile resources for our VI learners. This initiative not only supports our students’ learning but also prepares them for advancements like the use of 3D-printed shapes in Maths exams, first introduced in the November resit.

A huge thank you to George Rhodes from the University of Westminster and Maria Kaffa from the University of East London for leading such an inspiring and future-focused workshop!