The Grafisch Lyceum is a vocational college in Rotterdam specialising in media, design and technology, offering VMBO and MBO courses. The laser machine was originally purchased for the 2D/3D module within the VMBO course ‘Media, Design and ICT’. It is now used by the whole school.
For the Grafisch Lyceum, this machine is a tool for getting students excited about creating products. In addition, the laser cutter is frequently used to teach students how to use Adobe Illustrator and to create both 2D and 3D products. At the Grafisch Lyceum Rotterdam, we spoke to Leonard Braber, a teacher of Media Design and ICT. He uses the machine at school every day.
About the school
Grafisch Lyceum offers comprehensive vocational training programmes from VMBO to MBO level. “Students therefore start at VMBO level, where they receive lessons in the general development of all kinds of vocational skills within the media sector. And at the same school, they then choose an MBO follow-up course such as cameraman or designer. They are taught subjects such as audiovisual and interactive media, as well as lessons in creating 2D or 3D products. And that’s where we use the laser machine a lot.”
Choosing a laser machine
Leonard tells us more about the decision they made to purchase a laser machine. “We offer the 2D & 3D course, and in that course, students make products from wood, cardboard and paper using the laser machine. We also have 3D printers, but that’s a very time-consuming process. So we were actually looking to expand our range of machines to be able to produce items more quickly. We then took a refresher course on new media, which led us to a laser cutter. Because a laser machine is a really interesting thing to have at school. We were immediately enthusiastic about it – it’s a brilliant piece of kit! So after we’d had a look at it, we bought it straight away. The machine is ‘vandal-proof’ and sturdy, so it will last us for years.”
A good training programme
According to Leonard, the learning programme involving the laser machine is very interesting. “We use the laser cutter to teach students Adobe Illustrator, so they can use it to create their own products. We start with flat items such as a key ring or a coaster. We do this to help them develop their spatial awareness. They then have to design something in Adobe Illustrator that can actually be assembled. The pieces must fit together, preferably without glue. Some pupils have designed a little aeroplane or a jigsaw puzzle. They’re really getting creative with it.”
Enthusiastic pupils
The laser cutter is a way to get students excited, and according to Leonard, it works very well. “We’ve gone through an incredible amount of wood over the past few months. The machine is simply in constant use. Students are often queuing up to make their own creations. It has got the students excited. And that motivation from the students is very important to us. A laser cutter is very interesting for any school involved in media studies. With laser cutting, you have to deal with other factors such as the thickness of the wood and the speed, for example. And you simply don’t have that with simple 3D-printed products. So it really complements the curriculum, opening up a whole new avenue.”
Safety
Safety when working with the machine is a key aspect, according to Leonard. “In the production ‘hall’ (the most important room), there is always an instructor present who is always there for the students. The students are referred by the teacher, ensuring that only a certain number of students are in the room at any one time. The student must also always remain by the machine whilst it is in operation. It is also simply a safe machine because if the cover opens, the machine stops the task immediately.”
BRM’s service
Leonard tells us more about his experience of BRM’s service and the purchasing process for the laser machine. “We requested quotes from various suppliers. Vrotech asked me to come by, and I did so straight away. I was then given a very clear demonstration and subsequently received a clear quote. The installation of the machine was also very well and clearly communicated. I also found the explanation provided at the time of delivery very helpful. On one occasion, we had a setting wrong, and BRM even helped us very professionally via WhatsApp. So far, we’ve been very satisfied with BRM’s service.”
As well as BRM, Leonard also sought information from other companies offering laser machines. “One of your competitors was considerably more expensive, and that was the deciding factor in choosing BRM. When you look at the value for money, this is simply the perfect machine for us.”
“Actually, I’d quite like to buy a second one.”
Leonard is very enthusiastic about the machine at school. “It’s important for pupils to be able to create their own products. It’s fun to be able to design something. If you can then turn that design into a beautiful item made of wood or acrylic, you’ve got a really good process going. We’re really very happy with it and, to be honest, I’d quite like to get a second one.”
