A PUPIL has been hailed a “star” after winning a 3D printer for her primary school in Bradford.

Laura Verdina won an international competition with her design of London landmark Big Ben.

The ten-year-old is a year six pupil at Newhall Park Primary School in Bierley.

Helen Scarth, co-head teacher at Newhall Park, said: “She is an absolute star. She is a delightful young lady who works hard in everything she does.

“She is diligent, and everything she does she does to perfection. She is kind and nice - a real role model.

“We are very proud of her.”

On the new printer, Mrs Scarth said: “We would never in a million years be able to afford one. We are delighted with it.”

Laura said: “Last month, my ICT teacher showed us a 3D printer competition on PurpleMash - which I instantly became interested in because I love ICT and anything to do with design - and showed us how to start our entry.

“Almost everyone in class did a car - especially the boys who made lots of racing cars – so I designed a London bus as my entry.

“I wouldn’t stop until I had added every detail, even going home and logging into my account to finish what I did at school.

“After a few lessons, the teacher told us to try to make a house design. I thought I should do a Big Ben because, well, I already have two models of Big Ben at home (one out of mini-Lego and one from a 3D puzzle) and it would go well with my other design – the London bus.

“It ended up being the one I sent in as it would look different to everyone else’s. It definitely was!”

Laura, who also won a 3D printed model of her design and a modelling kit for herself for winning the competition, added: “A couple of weeks ago, I logged on and saw the seven finalists - and I was one of them! I was so happy I wanted to cry. It was still during the half-term holidays, so on the first day back, as I had computer club after school, I instantly showed everyone the finalists page.”

A spokesman for PurpleMash said: “This was our most popular competition to date with over five thousand children around the world taking part.

“Our competitions are designed to be fun whilst at the same time helping children develop important digital skills. These children are the architects, engineers and designers of tomorrow.

“Massive congratulations to Laura on winning first place - I’m sure she has a very bright future ahead of her.”

Mrs Scarth said the printer would be used for curriculum-based activities and after-school clubs.”