Aimed at pupils aged 11-14 (KS3), the new Design and Technology for Corrugated Cardboard Packaging module challenges young people to respond to a choice of realistic packaging briefs, by creating a logo and brand, then designing a packaging solution based on the shelf-ready packaging (SRP) requirements now being demanded by many customers of the Corrugated Industry.
There are four different design briefs on the e-learning website, with students given access to hints and tips, as well as the opportunity to request samples of corrugated materials to provide hands-on experience. In addition, students are invited to enter their packaging designs into a competition with prizes for both them and their school.
PaperWorks’ corrugated module has been developed to fit with modern classroom teaching techniques and facilities, and supports the industry’s aim to counter some of the common misconceptions of what has become one of the most sustainable and forward-thinking manufacturing sectors in the UK.
Design and Technology is an invaluable addition to the PaperWorks website which already contains the following modules:
Art and Design: 5 to 7 years•
Science and Technology: 7 to 11 years•
Geography Studies: 11 to 18 years•
Business Studies: 14 to18 years•
The website, launched in April 2012 and having already received a 5-star rating on the TES website, recently overcame stiff competition to win the prestigious 2013 Best Practice Awards Website of the Year from the Trade Association Forum (TAF).
The TAF Awards recognise, reward and promote Best Practice amongst Trade Associations in the UK and are a chance for TAF members to showcase their hard work and achievements during the last 12 months.
CPI’s Director of Packaging Affairs, Andy Barnetson, said: “I am delighted that PaperWorks, which already provides school teachers with a range of curriculum-linked multi-media learning resources for the Paper Industry, now provides access to a corrugated unit, through the Design and Technology curriculum.
“The new module will help pupils gain an insight into the innovative developments that have transformed corrugated from a packaging medium for transporting goods to a three-in-one solution comprising product protection, advertising platform and merchandiser. Hopefully, it will inspire the next generation of corrugated packaging designers.”
Corrugated packaging has come a long way since 1871 when it was first developed in the United States for wrapping fragile items such as bottles. Now this flexible material is a billion-pound state-of-the-art industry that protects more than 75% of Europe’s goods in transit and is the world’s favourite form of packaging.
It also ticks all the right environmental boxes. The industry is proud to use and promote a sustainable and renewable material, over 80% of which is recycled, saving an area the size of Greater London from landfill every four months.
Visit the PaperWorks website at www.paper.org.uk/paperworks or view the resource on the TES website.