SketchUp for Schools UK Ambassadors Programme Launches

Published 4th March 2026

D&T teachers from across the UK recently joined the first session of Trimble’s SketchUp for Schools Ambassadors Programme for an informal introductory session designed to build confidence, community and momentum for the year ahead.

Building confidence in CAD and 3D printing

Following the earlier introduction webinar, the session focused on getting to know the cohort, sharing current CAD experience and helping everyone get hands-on in SketchUp for Schools. Teachers joined from a wide range of settings, including mainstream secondary schools, multi-academy trusts and specialist provision, with many highlighting a shared ambition to strengthen CAD and bring 3D printing more effectively into KS3 and KS4.

The Trimble Education team introduced themselves and outlined how the programme will work over the coming months, including opportunities for teachers to test ideas, share classroom approaches and feedback directly into future product and curriculum development. Participants were encouraged to be open about what works, what doesn’t, and what schools need to make adoption easier.

A practical walkthrough helped teachers get set up on both Google Workspace and Microsoft environments, with key tips shared around login, pop-up settings and cookies. The team also demonstrated useful features inside the platform, including templates and units, autosave, file management and tool customisation.

Getting set up on school platforms

Teachers were introduced to the built-in curriculum library, with free lesson materials available as video and Google Slides. The group has been asked to complete a lesson before the next session and share feedback to help shape future support and resources.

The programme aims to support teachers to embed 3D modelling confidently in the classroom, build a network of peer support and help schools connect D&T learning to wider pathways in design, engineering and digital making.

For more information contact: amelia.wright@designtechnology.org.uk