London South Bank University (LSBU) Open Evening

Published 22nd January 2024

The recent LSBU Open Evening brought together teachers in D&T and included key figures from the sector including our CEO Tony Ryan and active participation from the Design & Technology Association team.

The evening provided a first-hand look at LSBU's design and technology courses, including BSc (Hons) Engineering Product Design, BSc (Hons) Product Design, and BSc (Hons) Product Design & Developer Engineer Apprenticeship programs. These courses focus on practical skills and knowledge in their respective fields.

Attendees explored LSBU's design, technology, and engineering facilities through a facility tour, offering insights into both theory and practical application. Notable projects, like creating a Formula type car for the national Formula Student Competition, attempting to break the land speed record in a human-powered vehicle, and development of new structural materials from waste products highlighted the hands-on nature of LSBU's education.

A standout feature was the student project showcase, demonstrating high design skills and a commendable passion for sustainability. Projects focused on programming, materials, and sustainability, reflecting both students' creativity and LSBU's commitment to addressing contemporary D&T challenges.

The interactive event allowed direct engagement with lecturers, current students, and faculty members. The attending teachers had the chance to ask questions, seek clarification, and understand the diverse opportunities at LSBU, creating a personalised and informative experience.

The LSBU team reflected on the event and told us, “We are delighted to build our network and relationships with the Design & Technology Association team, and with the teachers who are so critical in encouraging young designers of the future to follow this career pathway. We look forward to developing this into a regular programme of networking events, through which we can share more of the work that our students and academic colleagues do and learn more from teachers about the needs and aspirations of their students, to drive future course developments.”

Tony Ryan comments, “This was the first of our organised teacher visits to South Bank University. Our joint objective here is to provide design and technology teachers (and careers leads) an opportunity to explore the courses on offer within the product design and engineering department and to learn more about the course structure, opportunities for students and the selection processes in use. The aim being for teachers to be confident in the advice that they, in turn, pass on to their students.

Alongside an introductory talk detailing the department's offer, we had a guided tour of the facilities and, leaving the best part to last, received short talks and demonstrations from current and ex-students who wowed all present with their knowledge and passion for study within their chosen areas of expertise. All teachers present went away feeling well-informed and keen to share their experiences with their students. I personally cannot wait to build on this productive beginning of our partnership with the innovative and dedicated team at South Bank University".

LSBU's Open Evening provided a comprehensive exploration of the university's D&T offerings. From meeting key figures to exploring facilities and witnessing student projects, attendees gained valuable insights into this vibrant and forward-thinking educational environment.

For more information or to attend the next session, contact: amelia.wright@designtechnology.org.uk.