Gisborne Secondary College STEM Laser Cutter
Impact Pillars
People, Capacity & Resource Building
Impact Areas
Education
Laser Cutter Boosts STEM at Gisborne Secondary College
A new era of innovation has arrived at Gisborne Secondary College, thanks to a $10,000 grant from Community Bank Gisborne & District. The funding has been used to purchase of a high-quality laser cutter to enhance STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education at the school.
Bringing ideas to life
Last year, the school’s existing low-cost laser cutter was destroyed in a fire. With support from both the Community Bank and an insurance claim, the school has been able to replace the damaged unit with an advanced model—offering significantly improved learning opportunities for students.
The laser cutter will allow students to bring their ideas to life using 3D Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software, preparing them for the technologies used in modern workplaces. From custom electronics casings to signage, the equipment will also allow teachers to create complex project components that would otherwise be cost-prohibitive or time-intensive.
Expanding the College’s STEM offering
The project is part of Gisborne Secondary College’s plans to expand its STEM offering—including the development of a new technology wing that opened in 2025. With over 1,000 students and 102 teachers, the laser cutter will benefit a wide range of subjects, including science, design, drama, and more.
Importantly, the school’s 30 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, who already actively engage in STEM, will also benefit from this hands-on learning tool.
Equipping the next generation with future-ready skills
This investment in digital manufacturing capability will not only improve learning outcomes in the short term, but help equip the next generation of students with future-ready skills—strengthening the community’s STEM capabilities for years to come.
