Nurturing Next Gen Designers & Creatives

The role design and creativity plays in shaping our economies and societies cannot be overstated. Yet, despite its significance, the pathway to a career in design remains obscured for many young people, largely due to the rigidity of our current education system. Having said this, there are more and more initiatives to engage young people and create more awareness of how to enter the competitive and challenging creative world. I was fortunate enough to be a speaker during one of these initiatives hosted by the Victoria and Albert (V&A) Museum in London. I was joined by two colleagues to discuss our exciting ‘behind the scenes at Seymourpowell’ interactive webinar with KS4 & 5 students, in collaboration with the V&A Museum. Here we shared our experiences and journeys so far within the design industry. I have strong passion for sharing and hearing these journeys, mainly due to the lack of awareness I had when starting my career, and believe it’s imperative to reflect on why fostering a passion for design in the next generation is crucial.

The Economic Impact of Design

Design is more than just aesthetics; it's a powerful economic driver. According to the Design Council, the design economy contributed £85.2 billion to the UK in 2016, accounting for 7% of the UK’s economic Gross Value Added (GVA). The sector also employs over 1.69 million people in the UK, which is equivalent to 5% of the UK workforce. Globally, design has been identified as a key component in driving innovation, enhancing product functionality, and improving user experience, all of which are critical in maintaining a competitive edge in today’s market.

Moreover, companies that integrate design into their operations are shown to outperform those that do not. The Design Management Institute reports that design-led companies have maintained a significant stock market advantage, outperforming the S&P by 219% over a 10-year period. This underscores the value that design brings not only in economic terms but also in fostering innovation and competitiveness.

The Education System and Its Challenges

Despite the clear economic benefits and the growing demand for design professionals, the pathway to a career in design is not always clear-cut for young people. Our education system, often characterised by a rigid curriculum and an emphasis on traditional academic subjects, frequently overlooks the importance of creative disciplines. This lack of emphasis can stifle the potential of students who might otherwise excel in design-related fields.

Statistics from the Department for Education in the UK reveal a worrying trend: the number of students taking Design and Technology (D&T) at GCSE level has declined by 57% between 2007 and 2017. This decline is attributed to a range of factors, including the prioritisation of core academic subjects and the marginalisation of arts and creative subjects in school curricula. This trend poses a significant barrier to nurturing future designers and creatives.

Bridging the Gap: Initiatives and Opportunities

Recognising these challenges, initiatives like our partnership at Seymourpowell with the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Design & Technology Association’s school competition are crucial. These initiatives provide students with the opportunity to explore design in a hands-on, interactive manner, offering a glimpse into the possibilities within the industry. The school competition, for instance, invited Year 12 students to envision ‘The Future of Taking a Break’, challenging them to think creatively and practically about everyday experiences.

Such initiatives are essential in breaking down barriers and making design more accessible to young people. They provide a platform for students to showcase their talents, gain industry insights, and envision a future in design. By celebrating their work and encouraging their creative endeavours, we not only nurture their individual potential but also invest in the future of the design economy.

As part of the judging panel, I can safely say they are many teachers, educators, and young people who continue to show excellence in spreading the creative spirit. We will soon be announcing our winners of the Design & Technology Association’s school competition, so keep your eyes peeled over the next few weeks!

Looking Ahead: A Call to Action

As we look forward to the next 40 years with a spirit of optimistic futurism, it is vital to continue championing design education. We must advocate for a more flexible and inclusive education system that values creative disciplines alongside traditional academic subjects. By doing so, we can ensure that the next generation of designers and creatives are equipped with the skills and opportunities they need to succeed.

In conclusion, the future of design lies in the hands of today’s students. By fostering their passion and providing them with the tools and opportunities to explore their creativity, we can shape a more innovative, competitive, and economically robust future.

The beauty of the design and creative industry lies in its accessibility. No matter your age or experience, the doors to this vibrant world are open to anyone with passion, drive, and resilience. It's an industry that thrives on fresh perspectives, and your unique vision is invaluable.

Entering the design field isn't solely about having a formal education in the arts; it's about the willingness to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and continuously push the boundaries of innovation. The path may be filled with trial and error, but each setback is a step towards mastery and growth. With thick skin and an unyielding spirit, you can navigate the complexities and emerge as a successful designer.

Remember, the creative journey is lifelong. Whether you're a student just starting out, a professional looking to pivot, or someone reigniting an old passion, the design industry welcomes you. Your contributions can shape the future, spark new ideas, and drive economic growth.

Take that leap, nurture your creative spark, and let your passion guide you. The world of design awaits, and it's ready to be transformed by your unique touch. Together, let's shape a future where creativity knows no bounds.