University of East Anglia Hosts Inspiring Big D&T Meet

Published 16th July 2024

The University of East Anglia was abuzz with excitement on Friday as it played host to the Big D&T Meet, a fantastic event organised by teachers for teachers. With over 300 pupils, over 45 exhibitors and 42 speakers, the event highlighted the vibrant and supportive community within the D&T education sector.

The event also included raising awareness of the Sanjay Mortimer Foundation with over £1,000 raised for the charity which supports Neurodiverse students in a career in Engineering.

Kate Finlay, the driving force behind the event, was lauded as an champion of the subject and a 'doer'. Her dedication and hard work were evident, as she seamlessly coordinated an inspiring day filled with engaging activities and networking opportunities.

Kate explains, “The Big D&T Meet is an event designed for teachers for the D&T community.  We are proud to bring together all areas of the community to offer a day to spend time talking, learning and reflecting on the work in our schools.  The day was about positivity and wow and I feel that we certainly achieved this.  The success of the BIG D&T MEET was down to the community, the speakers, the exhibitors and the delegates.  I cannot wait for next year, where we move to Baysgarth!”

The positivity among participants was palpable, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the often-discouraging news surrounding the education sector. Attendees left the event with renewed optimism about the future of D&T education, buoyed by the shared enthusiasm and commitment of their peers.

"Amongst all the doom and gloom in education, I continue to be really optimistic about our subject. After attending events like these, it's impossible not to be," shared our Director of Education Ryan Ball, capturing the collective sentiment.

The day offered a diverse range of workshops and sessions tailored to meet various needs, along with the opportunity to explore the 'Mini Industry Village' during break and lunch times, featuring over 30 participating companies. Attendees engaged with keynote sessions on topics such as literacy, D&T and teaching autistic pupils in a practical setting. The event also provided a platform to connect with industry leaders, including representatives from Fosters + Partners, the Design Museum, and Neon Engineering.

The event’s success showcased the importance of community and collaboration among teachers, with many expressing gratitude for the connections and inspiration gained. The experience fostered a sense of unity and purpose that will undoubtedly have a lasting impact.

The Big D&T Meet was a well-organised event which highlighted the resilience and passion of the D&T teaching community, proving that even in challenging times, there is much to be hopeful about.