Engineering and Biomaterials: Teacher Training in Milan

On 1 October 2026, a teacher training session on engineering and biomaterials took place at Istituto Comprensivo Narcisi in Milan, Italy. Supported by the Science on Stage Engineering Grant, the workshop brought together secondary school teachers from three schools to explore biomaterials through practical activities. The following report was written by trainer Matteo Ferrecchia.

The workshop began with an introduction to biomaterials using photos and videos. We explained what biomaterials are, where they are used, and what kinds of products can be created from them.

Participants then carried out hands-on experiments to create small objects from organic waste. Each participant was provided with a set of ingredients and tools to prepare a mixture. We used 3D-printed moulds into which the cooked mixtures were poured to give the objects their shape. After a few minutes, participants removed the objects from the moulds and observed and discussed the results.

The third part of the workshop focused on how to introduce this topic in the classroom. We discussed existing educational resources, such as slideshows and videos about biomaterials. We also explored how to move from raising awareness about plastic pollution to introducing biomaterials and conducting practical experiments with students.

Participants were also introduced to 3D printing, which we used to produce the moulds. We explained how 3D printers can be used to create customised moulds for making a wide variety of objects from organic waste and other natural ingredients.

The final part of the workshop involved a group of students from Istituto Comprensivo Narcisi. They viewed the objects created during the workshop and asked the participating teachers questions about what the objects represented and how they had been made. This provided an opportunity for the teachers to explain the process and share what they had learned.