Laser Cutter and 3D Printers: Turning Ideas Into Reality

Written by India Robinson, ISP alumni class of 2022

At ISP, design isn’t just a subject - it’s a mindset, a method, and a journey.

Our vibrant MYP Design Studio, led by teachers Matthew Martin and Christian Black-Storm, is a space where students can discover the transformative power of creativity, technology, and collaboration. This dynamic learning space, a testament to the generosity of the ISP Fund and its donors, has become integral to our innovative approach to student-led inquiry.

This year, to continue pushing the boundaries of what students can achieve, the ISP Fund has enabled the purchase of a professional-grade FLUX HEXA laser cutter and a new 3D printer. This new equipment is already transforming how students explore spatial construction and approach design inquiry. From early prototyping to sophisticated fashion lines revealed in our Upper School Fashion Show, learners are encouraged to think deeply, build boldly, and iterate constantly.

“Design is creating a space in complexity and interacting inside that space. Effective designers bring with them particular knowledge, practices, tools, and a frame of judgment.”

Matthew Martin, MYP Design Teacher

Fostering a Culture of Innovation

The FLUX HEXA laser cutter has introduced a new level of possibility to the program, deepening cross-curricular collaboration across grade levels. From Middle School onward, students are gradually introduced to advanced fabrication tools in a scaffolded way, building toward independent, high-end tool use. Our students are now able to transfer their 2D concepts into 3D prototypes, bringing their ideas to life with a new level of precision. 

A Foundation for the Future

Through the MYP Design Cycle, learners identify problems, explore multiple perspectives, sketch solutions, and expand on their ideas through prototypes. As students advance into Upper School electives, they arrive equipped with a design-thinking mindset that allows them to engage meaningfully with complex problems. This powerful equipment is not only enhancing student work; it's giving teachers new opportunities to teach in more creative ways, fostering interdisciplinary projects throughout the school.

“It just gives them powerful tools to realise any vision that they may have.” 

Matthew Martin, MYP Design teacher

Durable, professional-grade tools like the FLUX HEXA laser cutter not only enhance student learning today - they build a foundation for lasting excellence and innovation for years to come. This commitment to tangible, hands-on learning ensures that every student can see their vision become a reality. None of this would have been possible without the ISP fund, and our generous donors’ investment in cutting-edge educational tools. 

“The ISP Fund is instrumental in driving the programme forward. It’s a direct impact—when you buy quality materials, you get quality results. That sends a message to our community and especially to our students: quality matters.”

Matthew Martin, MYP Design Teacher

Join Us

Our community’s generosity and involvement shape ISP, helping our students learn in new and inspiring ways.We invite you to continue this journey by making a gift to the ISP Fund 2025/26.