PrintLab Pioneer | Ed Charlwood

Hi! I'm Ed Charlwood - Director of Digital Learning at Latymer Upper School (UK). My first steps into the world of 3D printing followed seeing an article in Makezine showcasing the Thing-o-matic in 2010. I saw the model rabbit they had printed and though what a great addition it would be to a module I was teaching on jewellery, and that was the start of a slippery slope!

Example Works

Low cost, 3D printed prosthetics project

Google Certified Teacher

Apple Distinguished Educator

How my Students use 3D Printing

My students use 3D printing and 3D CAD extensively. It is absolutely core to the Design & Technology coursework projects they undertake (now known as the NEA). 3D printing enables them to realise far more ambitious ideas, concepts and prototypes than they ever would’ve been able to before.

Follow me on Twitter

The Importance of 3D Printing in Education

3D printing alongside 3D CAD and ‘design thinking’ are vital tools for students wanting to make a positive dent in the world. The proliferation of high-quality, free-for-student, industry level CAD and reliable additive manufacturing technologies means they are empowered like never before. Combine this with high power, low cost electronics and their only limit is their imagination.

My Thoughts on PrintLab Classroom

We plan to use the PrintLab classroom as the foundation for our key stage 3, to develop the ‘skillset’, ‘mindset’ and ‘toolsets’ in younger students to prepare them for examination years.

Go to PrintLab Classroom

My Advice for Teachers Getting Started with 3D Printing

Start small. Start with the purpose of project in mind. Printing pre-existing designs is fine, but not the end goal. Pair developing a knowledge of additive manufacturing with structured 3D CAD skills.