Design Lab Sheffield

In 2022/23, Design Lab Sheffield aimed to continue Sheffield’s legacy for innovation, creativity and making by supporting young people to develop 21st century skills. This legacy project was developed from the successful Design Lab Nation, an element of the V&A’s National Schools Programme, which we’ve helped deliver over several years.

Design Lab Sheffield was made possible thanks to the ongoing support of the V&A and generous funding from Durham Duplex. Durham Duplex specialise in the manufacture of machine knives and industrial blades. Based in Sheffield, their products are exported to over 70 countries worldwide.

The project saw a school group work closely with a designer with a focus on product, packaging and graphic design or metalwork. Through hands-on sessions with a design professional and access to the city’s collection, young people had the opportunity to learn about Sheffield’s industrial design heritage first-hand and develop their own creative skills.

The programme took place between November and July, and saw three school groups participate each year.

To find out more about our ongoing work with schools, email learning@sheffieldmuseums.org.uk