North Somerset education authority given revolutionary 3D printer

North Somerset education authority has been presented with a state-of-the-art 3D printer so that pupils across the county will be able to develop their knowledge in the area of computer aided design (CAD) and design & technology.

The printer, a BFB 3000, has been donated by Clevedon-based Bits from Bytes, which develop and manufacture the revolutionary printers which produce three-dimensional prototypes.

With 3D machines typically retailing at around £15,000, most schools and educational bodies cannot afford to buy a 3D printer.

But at under £2,000 the BFB 3000 has enabled schools across the world to access the field of 3D printing.

The plan is for schools within the North Somerset’s catchment area to loan the printer so that students studying design technology will able to ‘print’ their ideas.

Iain Major Operations & IT director at Bits from Bytes said: “We’re delighted to donate this fantastic piece of equipment to North Somerset education and is a great example of industry and education working in partnership.

“Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) is a core part of the design and technology curriculum, yet many schools struggle to deliver the manufacturing side because to date equipment has proved too expensive.”

Bringing affordable 3D printing to the home, classroom and business the BFB 3000 is a pre-assembled 3D printer that can be used as a rapid prototyper or rapid manufacturer.

Dave White who teaches at Clevedon School and is a one of North Somerset’s Advanced Skills Teachers added: “This is great news and I’d like to thanks Bits from Bytes for giving us this brilliant bit of kit.

"It’s vital that students have access to equipment like this in order for them to learn the processes that take place in industry. The cost prohibitive nature of 3D printers meant they were losing out on a key element of their learning but this donation will ensure that tomorrow’s designers and manufacturers will not get left behind.”

For more information see: bitsfrombytes.com