This Design and technology video introduces the pupils to fibreglass, a strong and lightweight material often used to make protective shell structures. It explains how thin glass fibres are layered over a mould and coated with resin, which hardens into a tough shell once dry. The video highlights real-world examples such as boats, surfboards and helmets, showing how fibreglass combines strength for safety with lightness for comfort. It helps the children understand why fibreglass is such an effective material for helmets and other shell structures.

This video is part of the Year 4, Structures: Helmets unit. It breaks down technical processes into simple, child-friendly explanations, preparing the pupils to explore how materials contribute to the strength and effectiveness of shell structures.

• Design and technology, Year 4, Structures: Helmets, Lesson 3: Strengthening techniques.
• Design and technology, Year 4, Structures: Helmets.