Design & Technology Association Excellence Awards 2026

Celebrating excellence in design and technology

The Design & Technology Association Excellence Awards celebrate individuals who make a real impact in design and technology. Founded in 1999 by the Design & Technology Association Trustees, the awards recognise teachers, pupils and industry partners who go above and beyond to inspire and shape learning in the subject.

Each submission is carefully reviewed by the trustees and executive team, with winners chosen based on the information and references provided. You can also explore previous winners on our website to see the outstanding work recognised over the years.

Know someone who deserves recognition? Whether it is a colleague, a pupil or an industry partner, submit your nomination now and help give them the recognition they truly deserve.

The 2026 Excellence Awards are now open!

Submission deadline: 8th June 2026

Nominate today →

Discover the 2026 categories below:

Category 1: The AssetTagz Excellence Award for Outstanding Secondary Subject Leadership

Category 2: The Royal Ballet & Opera Schools Create & Design Excellence Award for Outstanding Primary Subject Leadership

Category 3: The James Dyson Foundation Excellence Award Recognising Outstanding D&T Teacher(s)

Category 4: The Nook Pods Excellence Award for Inspirational Support Staff within D&T

Category 5: The Excellence Award for Outstanding Contribution to D&T (Awarded by the D&T Association Board of Trustees)

Category 6: The Enginuity Excellence Award for Outstanding Industry Engagement (Teacher)

Category 7: The OnePlanet Excellence Award for Outstanding Industry Engagement (Industry Partner)

Category 8: The Cenata Excellence Award for Outstanding Departmental Team

Category 9: The Local Supply Chain Excellence Award for Outstanding Pupil: Age 5-11

Category 10: The Royal Academy of Engineering Excellence Award for Outstanding Pupil: Age 12-16

Category 11: The Excellence Award for Outstanding Pupil: Age 16-18

For more information on how to complete a successful nomination see our hints and tips.

Nominate today →

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Design and Technology (D&T) is the inspiring, rigorous and practical subject which prepares all young people to live and work in the designed and made world.

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