Welcome to the Macquarie College Design Lab!

Whether you’re returning or exploring the Design Lab for the first time, we are glad you’re here!

The Design Lab is a creative maker space where hands-on experiences build knowledge, skills, and confidence. We value the learning process behind every creation. Our projects draw on Gold Standard Project-Based Learning and Stanford Design Thinking, connecting meaningful questions with research, ideas, making, and testing. Learning from Brightworks and Harvard Project Zero also shapes how we explore, reflect, and share our thinking.

What to Expect

You will investigate, design, make, test, and improve. Iteration means using evidence and feedback to revisit ideas and make thoughtful changes. Skills grow over time: testing batteries with a multimeter in Year 2 builds foundations for investigating circuits and pursuing more complex projects in Year 6.

Teachers model skills, guide practice, and support you towards independence through “I do, we do, you do.” Projects connect with the NSW syllabus while giving you choices and ownership of your learning. Our goal is to help you become a confident, resourceful learner for life.

Our Culture

This is OUR SPACE, and everyone helps make it welcoming, respectful, and safe. Our Christian identity encourages servant leadership, compassion, and care for every student.

We practise collaboration through team challenges and talking circles inspired by Socratic seminars. Listen carefully, ask thoughtful questions, explain your ideas, and build on others’ thinking. Share resources, offer encouragement, and contribute to our learning community.

Safety First

Our number one rule: DO NOT HURT YOURSELF OR ANYONE ELSE.

• Use tools only after training, with staff permission, and under required supervision.

• If you are unsure, stop and ask. Staff and peers can support your learning; staff authorise tool use.

• Follow instructions, wear required protective equipment, and care for shared resources.

Below, you’ll find websites and resources to support your investigations and creations. Bring your curiosity, learn from each attempt, and share what you discover.

Welcome to the Design Lab. Let’s get started!

Macquarie College Design Lab 2026