Getting Started with Onshape in Design & Technology

Thanks to sponsorship from PTC Onshape, this training is available at a discounted rate.

Our usual CPD rates are £199 for members and £270 for non-members.

This practical, hands-on CPD session is designed for Design & Technology teachers who are new to Onshape or looking to build confidence using cloud-based CAD in the classroom.

Participants will learn how to navigate Onshape, create and modify 3D models using professional CAD workflows, develop assemblies and explore collaborative features that support classroom delivery.

Using examples drawn from real classroom practice, attendees will gain first-hand experience of the design process used by engineers and product designers.

Pre-course preparation

•     Create and test an Onshape Education account.

•     Join the shared course document.

Why Onshape?

•     Introduction to cloud CAD.

•     Benefits for schools, teachers and students.

•     Example classroom applications.

Navigating Onshape

•     User interface.

•     Viewing and manipulating 3D models.

•     Document management.

Creating 3D Models Participants will create a series of models whilst learning:

•     Sketching fundamentals

•     Dimensions and constraints

•     Extrude

•     Revolve

•     Sweep

Assemblies Using the parts created earlier, participants will:

•     Insert components

•     Apply mates and constraints

•     Build a simple LEGO-style assembly

•     Explore how products are created from multiple components

Collaboration and Classroom Workflows

•     Sharing documents

•     Version history

•     Comments and feedback

•     Teacher and student workflows

Classroom Applications and Next Steps

•     Design & Technology projects

•     Engineering and STEM activities

•     Available support and resources

•     Further opportunities for professional development

Important: Participants should create and test their Onshape Education account before attending to maximise time spent on practical modelling activities

Meet the Trainer

Simon Hooker is an experienced Design and Technology educator and national advocate for CAD, digital design, engineering education and STEM. As an Onshape European Ambassador and Specialist Leader of Education (SLE), he supports schools and teachers in developing practical CAD skills and integrating digital design and manufacturing into the curriculum.

Simon has led the relaunch of Scalextric4Schools, bringing CAD, digital manufacturing and real-world engineering practice into classrooms and helping students connect design concepts with industry applications. He is passionate about equipping teachers with the skills and confidence to use modern CAD tools, particularly Onshape, to deliver engaging, industry-relevant learning.