Introduction to Design & Architecture 1: TERM 1 (WED TRIAL)

At DesignTinkers, children will embark on a 18-week journey (Term 1 & 2) that introduces them to the fundamentals of Design + Architecture through hands-on exploration. They will develop an understanding of design concepts, sustainability, and creative thinking—skills that will last a lifetime! Through sketching and model making, students will be encouraged to transform their creative ideas into tangible, imaginative creations!

Exploring a Variety of Mini Projects Weekly

Term 1: Exploring Architecture through Geometry, Form, Frame and Structure (Weeks 1-9)

In Term 1, spanning nine weeks, students will dive into the world of architectural design. They will explore basic geometries and discover how architectural forms are created using simple shapes. Students will also learn key concepts such as scale, function, framing, and structural integrity.

Through weekly hands-on mini-projects, they will apply their understanding of support systems and structural design by building creations such as a pavilion, a tower, and a bridge.

These 2-hour classes will foster creativity and critical thinking as students test ideas and experiment with new approaches. They will gain a deeper appreciation of how well-designed structures shape our built environment, while working collaboratively, learning about sustainability, and using resources responsibly—all while having fun with their projects.

Term 2: Typologies of Home (Weeks 10-16)

In Term 2, spanning 9 weeks, students will explore the diverse typologies of homes found around the world. They will discover how different dwelling designs respond to factors such as local climate, site conditions, available materials, regulations, and the unique needs of homeowners.

From our tropical vernacular houses to alternative forms of living—such as treehouses, mobile homes, and floating houses—students will gain insight into a wide range of architectural possibilities.

This will be a fun, imaginative, and hands-on term that encourages students to envision innovative and functional living spaces for the future.

Final 2 Weeks: Presenting Their Masterpieces (Weeks 17-18)

In the final two weeks, students will have the opportunity to showcase the work they’ve done throughout the program. In Week 17, they will learn how to create professional presentations that effectively highlight their projects and accomplishments. In Week 18, they will focus on honing their verbal presentation skills, learning how to confidently share and discuss their creative process, ideas, and finished works. This program will also culminate with an open showing, presenting an exciting opportunity for parents to visit and celebrate their child's hard work thus far.

Additionally, this program also equips students with skills highly valued for Direct School Admission (DSA). Students will develop a portfolio of tangible works such as models, sketches, and presentations, which are ideal for showcasing creativity during interviews. By blending science, engineering, math, art, and architecture, they build interdisciplinary skills that stand out, especially as architecture is a less common focus at the primary level. The teamwork, problem-solving, and communication experiences gained here also prepare students for group discussions, helping them shine in DSA applications and beyond.

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DesignTinkers camps are specially curated and led by experienced instructors, including educators, architects, and designers, who are passionate about nurturing young minds. The program offers a supportive environment where children can freely explore, create, and collaborate under close guidance.

Parent Testimonial:

“Our son's experience with the Design and Architecture course at DesignTinkers has been transformative. The program's hands-on approach, taking students from initial design briefs to constructing carton board models, provided invaluable practical experience. Watching him transform ideas from paper to three-dimensional structures has been remarkable, and his confidence in tackling design challenges has grown significantly. The course's practical focus has given him real-world skills that will serve him well in the future.”

Vanessa & Liang Tan

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Wednesday Classes

Time: 4.30 - 6.30pm

Term 1 Dates: 7 Jan - 11 Mar 2026

*No class on 18 Feb due to CNY

Fee: $585 for 9 sessions

Trial Fee: $75 for a session

Term 2 Dates: 1 Apr - 27 May 2026

Fee: $585 for 9 sessions

(Note: The Term 2 will be collected at the end of February)

Includes all workshop materials. No additional term fee registration.

Age: 7-9/ 10-12 years old

Location: Agora Colearning, HarbourFront Centre, 1 Maritime Square, #04-01 Lobby C, S(099253)

NOTE: Only one make-up session allowed per term if a student is unable to attend any lessons at the last minute but with a valid reason.