Kingsmeadow students get hands-on experience in prestigious DesignLab Nation programme
Inspiring the next generation of designers and innovators, Year 10 students from Kingsmeadow Community School in Dunston are playing an exciting role in the renowned DesignLab Nation schools’ education programme.
Among just two North East schools selected for this unique opportunity, these students are developing skills that will help them thrive in future workplaces, while learning about the powerful connection between design, history, and their local community. Excellent news!
Understanding how design shapes both our culture and our daily lives
The DesignLab Nation programme is a dynamic initiative that fosters partnerships between schools, regional museums, and professional designers.
With a strong emphasis on local making, design heritage, and industry, the programme also highlights the importance of both historical and contemporary design. By engaging students with regional collections and encouraging place-making, the programme helps them see how design shapes both our culture and our daily lives.
For Kingsmeadow Community School students, participating in the programme has opened doors to incredible learning experiences. One of the highlights has been their visit to the iconic Victoria and Albert (V&A) Museum in London, where they explored a contemporary ceramic exhibition alongside an array of other important pieces.
This trip proved to be an enriching extension of their studies, offering them a deeper understanding of art, design, and history. It was a rare chance to connect with artworks from across time, bridging the gap between theory and real-world application.
The students have also benefited from a visit to the Shipley Art Gallery in Gateshead, another pivotal experience that enhanced their creative journey.
“The Shipley Art Gallery is a great Gateshead institution, and we were excited for our students to work with them on this project,” said Mr Barrett, Head Teacher at Kingsmeadow. “I’ve spoken to the students involved, and I know they’ve had a wonderful time, showcasing their artistic skills and realizing their own potential.”
Gaining more than just technical design skills
These visits have had a profound impact on the students, building their confidence and encouraging them to channel their creativity into practical projects. Inspired by their experiences, they have been working on designing and producing prototypes that could help enhance their local community.
These prototypes will be showcased at the DesignLab Nation event in the summer of 2025, offering the students a chance to present their work to a wider audience and gain valuable feedback from industry experts.
The programme has provided Kingsmeadow students with much more than just technical design skills. It has ignited a passion for creativity and innovation, fostering a deeper appreciation for how design can transform spaces, enrich communities, and reflect cultural heritage.
As these young learners continue to hone their skills, the DesignLab Nation programme is helping equip them for the future – one where design and creativity will play a leading role in shaping tomorrow’s world.
Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East, said: “This partnership between Kingsmeadow, regional institutions, and the DesignLab Nation programme exemplifies the power of collaboration in inspiring the next generation of designers and innovators.
“Through hands-on experiences and meaningful connections with the design world, these students are gaining the tools they need to succeed in an ever-evolving global landscape.”
Kingsmeadow School is a Schools North East Partner School. If you’d like to find out more about our Partner School membership, click here.
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