Create Innovation began with three pilot workshops in 2015, introducing primary school students to 3D design, 3D printing, and beginner programming using MIT Scratch.
Following the success of these workshops, Auckland Council invited us to run regular sessions from their new community hub in Mt Roskill. Working alongside graduates from AUT’s Bachelor of Creative Technologies programme, workshops expanded into twice-weekly sessions with up to 24 students.
As students gained confidence, many progressed from beginner tools into more advanced electronics, CAD design, robotics, sensors, programming, and prototyping. Workshops focused on practical experimentation and learning through building real projects.
Over time, students explored Arduino electronics, programmable lighting systems, robotics, GPS tracking, drone flight controllers, environmental monitoring, and freshwater science applications.
Between 2018–2019, several students received awards at the Auckland NIWA Science and Technology Fair and the annual Bright Sparks national technology competitions.
The project milestones below highlight some of the technologies, projects, and practical skills explored during workshops between 2015–2020.
Media and recognition:
Student projects:
Arduino & electronics foundations:
What students learnt & professional use/pathways forward:
3D computer design, 3D printing, & laser-cut fabrication:
What students learnt & professional use/pathways forward:
Infrared-triggered wildlife camera traps:
What students learnt & professional use/pathways forward:
Programmable LED lighting:
What students learnt & professional use/pathways forward:
accelerometers & gyrosabilisation:
What students learnt & professional use/pathways forward:
Air quality & atmospheric sensor experiments:
What students learnt & professional use/pathways forward:
DIY robotics & remote-controlled systems:
What students learnt & professional use/pathways forward:
GPS tracking & Ardupilot drone flight controllers:
What students learnt & professional use/pathways forward:
Portable freshwater e.coli sample incubator:
What students learnt & professional use / pathways forward: