Curriculum Review Response

Published 6th December 2024

The long-awaited curriculum review led by Professor Becky Francis is generating anticipation within the design and technology education community. The Association has actively contributed to this process, collaborating on a joint paper with the Design Council, NSEAD, and other organisations. We have now submitted our own curriculum review response informed by feedback from over 200 teachers and work with external organisations.

You can read the full report here.

There is widespread agreement that the existing curriculum requires substantial reform. The focus on STEM education and addressing the skills gap to support the industrial strategy offers hope for positioning D&T as a vital subject within schools.

Implementation of the review’s recommendations is projected to begin in 2027 at the earliest, with a full report expected by late 2025. Despite this timeline, the pressing challenge of teacher recruitment demands immediate action. The Association has prioritised lobbying for urgent intervention to tackle the ongoing recruitment crisis, ensuring schools can maintain quality D&T instruction.

Transparency has been central to our approach. Rooted in years of research, including the EPI’s ‘Spotlight on Design and Technology Study in England’ and the ‘Reimagining D&T’ report, the proposals reflect extensive consultations with design and technology teachers. Collaborative efforts with the Design Council, NSEAD, IET, and others has also been encapsulated in the ‘Blueprint for Renewal Design and Technology Education’.

As the review progresses, Tony, Chief Executive of the Association, highlights the importance of unity within the D&T community. Reflecting on past divisions, he urges open dialogue and collective effort.

“This curriculum review is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine and reshape our subject,” Tony explains. “Let’s grab it enthusiastically with both hands!”

The Association remains committed to ensuring D&T thrives in the school curriculum, strengthened by partnerships with professional organisations, industry leaders, and educators.

See further reports and reading here.