Embedding Sustainability into the D&T Curriculum with Junk Kouture

As D&T teachers, we are helping to shape the next generation of engineers, designers and innovators, young people who will need to use fewer resources, think differently and find creative solutions to environmental challenges.

However, with packed GCSE and A-level specifications, rotations, carousels and short projects, finding the time to embed sustainability across the curriculum can be difficult. Few departments have the capacity to redesign their entire curriculum, which is why practical ideas, quick wins and engaging projects are so valuable.

In this webinar, we will share simple and achievable ways to bring sustainability into your teaching. Discover how waste materials can become the starting point for imaginative design, from couture outfits created using milk-bottle lids to products made from discarded tents and scrap timber.

You will explore fun, fully resourced project ideas that can help you:

• Embed sustainability within existing D&T teaching
• Inspire creativity, innovation and circular thinking
• Reduce spending on materials at a time when budgets are under pressure
• Develop students’ confidence, collaboration, problem-solving and communication skills
• Introduce students to exciting experiences and opportunities beyond the classroom

What is Junk Kouture?

Junk Kouture is a global creative competition for young people aged 12 to 19. It challenges students to transform everyday waste and 100% recycled materials into extraordinary wearable designs.

Supported by free educational resources, Junk Kouture can be incorporated into classroom lessons, clubs and enrichment activities across Art, Design and Technology, STEM, Environmental Science and other curriculum areas.

Students begin designing when registration opens in September, before submitting their completed creations for judging in February. The highest-rated designs progress to the City Finals in May, with qualifying entries going on to compete for the title of Junk Kouture World Designer of the Year.

More than a design competition, Junk Kouture offers young people the chance to develop future-ready skills, explore new possibilities and potentially take their creativity from the classroom to national and international stages.

Join us to discover how small changes and creative approaches can make sustainability an exciting, meaningful and manageable part of your D&T curriculum.