Nationwide Teacher Consultations

Published 4th July 2023

Our CEO Tony Ryan has embarked on a series of teacher consultations across the country. These consultations aim to gather valuable insights and feedback from educators in order to shape the discussions put forth to government to secure the future of design and technology on the curriculum. These consultations are still ongoing and are free to attend. See all upcoming consultations and register here.

Design and Technology has long been recognised as a vital subject that equips students with practical skills, problem-solving abilities, and creativity. However, changes in educational policies and shifting priorities have led to a decline in the focus and support given to this crucial subject. We are determined to reverse this trend and ensure the subject's future sustainability.

Consultations

These consultations have provided an opportunity for teachers to voice their concerns, share their experiences, and contribute their insights on the challenges faced.

The focus has been on fully understanding these difficulties, exploring potential solutions, and identifying ways to revitalise and strengthen Design and Technology education. These consultations have also sought to highlight the critical role that this subject plays in fostering innovation, nurturing practical skills, and preparing students for future careers.

Speaking about the importance of these teacher consultations, Tony Ryan explained, "Educators play a pivotal role in shaping the future of design and technology education. By directly engaging with teachers, we can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges they face and work collaboratively to ensure that the right message is taken to government.”

Our vision

We have a vision to share with you based on last year's countrywide consultations and work carried out since this time but we need your input and feedback. As your professional Association, we want to accurately represent your thoughts, values, and aspirations for the subject that we love as we bring a vision to the next government, whatever colour that government might be. We want to bring a set of calculated solutions, not a set of problems, and we aim to unite the community and key stakeholders behind a common solution for the future of the subject.  

Our vision, informed by the teacher consultations, will be launched publicly on Monday 24^th July at a meeting to be held at the V&A. This will then be taken to both major political parties at Conferences in September and October.

Register for our next Teacher Consultations here: Training and Events - D&T Association (designtechnology.org.uk)