Wind turbines are an increasingly popular way of generating green energy particularly around the Thanet coastline – and children at Upton Juniors in Broadstairs have been designing their own.
The Year 5 group has worked with a digital programme called Tinkercad to create their own prototype of the sustainable power source.
They linked their knowledge of pulleys and how they work as part of their challenge that began with a sketch of the wind turbine on paper, which was then designed on a computer and finally made using a range of materials.
The project was linked to the children’s thematic curriculum topic 'Tides of Change', where they investigated different sources of energy and gears and pulleys.
Nikki Lewis, Head of Year 5, said: “As we prepare our children for the next stages of education and for the future, we are always exploring different opportunities to intertwine our learning with technology.
“The Tinkercad programme has enhanced the children's ability to deepen their understanding of design and construct some wonderful wind turbines.”
Head of School Darci Arthur said: “Harnessing natural energy sources is part of our ongoing sustainability learning that all our pupils discover and discuss throughout their time at Upton.
“The wind turbines are a very visible and familiar sight around the Thanet coastline and beyond and our children were excited to find out more about how they work to generate power and to then design their own prototypes.
“The 3D design system shows our pupils that if they can dream it, they can create it. It is a useful part of Upton’s STEAM learning programme that encompasses science, technology, engineering, art and maths.”
To find out more about the free design app programme go online to www.tinkercad.com
Upton Junior School is part of the Viking Academy Trust with Ramsgate Arts Primary and Chilton Primary School, Ramsgate.
For more information contact Head of School Darci Arthur on 01843 861393.
