Lighting up creativity… and their rooms!
During Semester 1, Year 8 Design students at the Glen Waverley Campus took on an imaginative challenge: designing and building their own night lights.
The project required students to employ a wide range of practical skills, learning how to use digital design software, applying laser cutting techniques and practising soldering as they assembled their creations. Along the way, they explored different construction and assembly methods, deepening their understanding of how products are made.
More than just a technical task, this project encouraged creativity, innovation and problem-solving. From the initial concept sketches to the final illuminated product, students embraced the design process with enthusiasm and originality.
Patrick (Year 8) explains: ‘At the start of the project, my inspiration came from the artwork ‘The Great Wave’. I was excited about the idea, but partway through, I realised I wanted my night light to have more functionality, so I decided to change my design to a car. But changing my design so late in the process meant I had to work quickly to catch up and rethink everything - from the shape to how the light would fit. It was a bit stressful, but I learnt a lot about staying flexible and problem-solving under pressure.’
‘The best part of the project was building and assembling the night light. I’d never done soldering before, but I learned how to do it to connect my LED strip to the battery and switch. After all the planning, redesigning and effort, it was really satisfying to see everything come together in the end. I’m proud of what I’ve made; it actually works and it looks good too!’
‘Overall, this project taught me a lot - not just about design and technology, but about time management and how rewarding it is to bring an idea to life.’
Each night light reflects the personal style and effort of its designer – and we’re thrilled to hear that many of them are now lighting up bedrooms at home! We are proud of our students’ efforts and the skills they’ve gained through this engaging and rewarding project.
