Elephant, Owl and Penguin Shaped Money Boxes in Year 8 Design – February 2025
Learning about not only the creative part of the design process, but the tools, machinery and thought processes required to design and create an object, our Year 8 students have been busy working on making their very own money boxes – in either an elephant, owl or penguin shaped design.
Using stencils, students set about cutting out and shaping wood into their desired design. Talking to students, it’s clear to hear that it’s been challenging but enjoyable process, as Kirsty, shared,
“This has been really good fun, and it’s been great to learn not only about the material we’re using, but about the tools and machinery available to help us create our money boxes. We’re given the right amount of independence in this class, so we can grow in confidence – and really enjoy Design.”
She continued,
“Everyone in the Design department is so helpful and informative, there aren’t many subjects where you have as much independence as this!”
Under the watchful eye of Mrs Cracknell our Head of Design, and Mr Hardman our Design Technician, students are guided, supported and encouraged to learn and try new techniques and learn different skills. Mrs Cracknell shared,
“Although it might sound quite simple, this project covers learning about the material we’re using, how it behaves, what it’s like to work with, as well as what tools and machinery can give the best finish.”
Henri and Oliver have both enjoyed cutting the wood in particular, and Oliver commented,
“It’s so satisfying seeing it all come together – when you have all the pieces you need and you finally get to create what you’ve been visualising, my favourite part has been sanding down the wood and using lots of different tools – I’ve learned so much.”
Henri spoke about what he enjoys the most about Design, saying,
“I really enjoy having the chance to work independently, and just being creative!”
Enjoying the independence, Imogen commented,
“I love these sorts of projects. We get direction, assistance and support at the start, but then we’re given the freedom to work independently, while constantly able to collaborate and discuss with others in the class. We’re all learning from each other as well as from Mrs Cracknell.”
Talking more about why she enjoys Design she shared,
“There’s so much freedom to be creative – and it’s the creativity I love the most.”
With many of their money boxes close to completion, they were recently exhibited in School; an opportunity for parents, family and friends to see and understand their work; their individual creativity was clear for all to see. Mrs Cracknell commented,
“It’s great to work through a process, a project and for the students to see their creativity and designs come to life. In this case it’s an item they can keep and use, something to remind them of what they can achieve in Design.”
