Design Technology is the subject that opens career doors – from engineering to fashion and product design – because makers, inventors and problem solvers all need foundations to set them on their way and. Two experts in the field give us their elevator pitch
Adele Crabtree is Director of the Arts at Broomwood Hall and Head of DT at Northwood Senior. She graduated from Canterbury with a degree in 3D Design and worked as a designer for almost a decade in a WPP branding consultancy before turning full circle to inspire the next generation of designers.
What makes Design Technology so brilliant?
Everything in the world that every human interacts with that isn’t organically grown has been designed. A problem is identified, and solutions created. Designs evolve, adapt and improve the world in which we live. This is exactly what each child learns to do in DT.
What made you choose it?
The opportunity came, and I grabbed it with both hands. DT is creative, technical, challenging. Seeing a pupil’s ideas coming to life and guiding them is hugely rewarding.
Transferable skills and knowledge acquired?
Skills of problem-solving, collaboration and evaluation. Knowledge of material properties or technology can be learnt along the way. A flexible mindset and the ability to see opportunities in the ‘mistakes’.
What pathways does it open?
There are too many to list here. As a STEM subject they can move into design, engineering, or CAD (computer aided design). Careers are as diverse as fashion designer, rocket scientist, branding designer, architect. packaging or furniture designer and structural engineer. The broader importance of DT lies in helping pupils to think laterally and creatively and work in teams – important skills for the modern workplace irrespective of what you end up doing.
2 things students might not realise Design Technology covers
GCSE DT is not just ‘making’! A large proportion is theory where you can apply knowledge from other STEM subjects – and you don’t need to be able to draw! If you can get your ideas across to engage someone else, then that’s all you need. Computers and Visualisers are used in industry to help with this.
James Buxton is Director of Design & Technology at Framlingham College. After a BA in Furniture & Product Design at Nottingham Trent University, he worked in the design industry before a PGCE and Master’s in Education at Cambridge. He is most excited by mid-century modern furniture and sustainable design.
What makes Design Technology so brilliant?
It is the most liberating and empowering subject – students gain more than just making skills, they also develop creative thinking skills, genuine autonomy, and ownership of their learning journey.
What made you choose it?
I love the freedom and variety. Every lesson brings new challenges and ideas – all to be solved or realised by exploring and experimenting. A studio of ten to 15 students all working on completely different projects is so engaging.
Transferable skills and knowledge acquired?
Students practise the design process – the ability to identify problems, research, plan, create and reflect. This translates well in any area of study or industry and enables them to apply their skills with creativity and confidence in other contexts.
What pathways does it open?
Design is everywhere, now more than ever. Equipped with creative skills and self-efficacy, pupils are advantaged in careers ranging from engineering and architecture, to design for film and TV and UX.
2 things students might not realise Design Technology covers
The Climate Crisis and social issues like inclusion – Design Technology graduates will be the ones to solve these problems in the future, I hope!
DESIGN TECHNOLGY FAST FACTS
3 Famous Design graduates: Stella McCartney, Sir James Dyson, Jony Ive,
5 study hotspots: Royal College of Art, UAL, Dundee, Plymouth, Loughborough
Where designers hang out: The RSA (Royal Society for Arts, Manufactures and Commerce) is meeting point for designers, makers and problem solvers. thersa.org
Further reading: Elevator pitch: Why study Geography
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