Our Year 10 DT students visited London to help bring to life aspects of their GCSE course. The day began with a tour of the Designer Maker User exhibition at the Design Museum, which celebrates the innovators who have shaped the modern world. With nearly 1,000 objects spanning architecture, engineering, digital design, fashion, and graphics, the exhibit brought design history to life. A highlight was the fascinating crowdsourced wall, showcasing a spectrum of contemporary design ideas and inspirations.
The Barbie exhibition proved to be an unexpected hit, delving into the doll’s evolution since its 1959 debut. Pupils viewed the first-edition Barbie and an array of dolls that reflect changing cultural and societal values. From the first Black, Hispanic, and Asian Barbie dolls to representations of diverse abilities – such as a Barbie with Down Syndrome and one using a wheelchair – the exhibition explored how the brand has embraced multiculturalism and inclusion. The design-focused perspective also highlighted Barbie’s influence on fashion, architecture, and product design over the decades.
After lunch, the group headed to the world-famous V&A Museum in South Kensington. Here, pupils explored the Dr Susan Weber Gallery, home to a remarkable furniture collection spanning centuries. Over 200 pieces from Britain, Europe, America, and Asia provided an immersive journey through furniture production, from medieval craftsmanship to cutting-edge contemporary design.
The trip not only enriched the pupils’ understanding of design and art but also sparked curiosity and creativity for their academic studies. Museum staff praised the pupils for their exemplary behaviour, making it a truly enjoyable outing for all involved.
This memorable day out underscored the value of exploring art and design in real-world settings, leaving pupils inspired to bring fresh ideas into their work.
