Our Level 1 Carpentry students were shown some of the technology they will become familiar when Axminster Tools visited last week.
Axminster visited the Gravesend campus to demonstrate a portable CNC router the company supplies, with students having the opportunity to test it out.
CNC routers are computer-controlled machines that are used for milling, drilling and cutting materials. They are typically used to cut, engrave and carve objects.
The computer control moves, rotates and spins tool automatically according to pre-programmed software making the process much quicker and more reliable than if done by hand.
Dan Hopkins, Lecturer for Carpentry at North Kent College, explained more about the visit: “I wanted to expand the students’ knowledge of what different tools are available in the wood occupation world, so I asked Alex from Axminster to give a demonstration to provide an insight as to how technology is being integrated into tools and equipment and how it is evolving the trade.
“In addition to showing its variety of uses, it was also to highlight different variants of the tool and the pros and cons to them. For example, a full-size CNC machine would cost to £10,000 whereas the handheld cost £3,000 and a full size one takes up a lot of room and needs a specific table whereby the handheld one you can place your material on a normal work bench.”
North Kent College runs a number of construction courses, based at its Gravesend and Hadlow campuses.
There are dedicated facilities for Brickwork, Painting and Decorating, Carpentry and Multitrades, and all courses are delivered in workshop environments that replicate the experience of working in the chosen industry.
The College also has strong links with local employers, businesses and trade outlets, and a great record for getting students on to apprenticeships with reputable companies.
Additionally staff are all from industry, highly qualified, and use their experience to give students the best support and start to their future.
You can find out more by visiting the Construction courses page of the North Kent College website.