Inspiring curious minds with BBC Bitesize for Teachers
Published 6th January 2026
BBC Bitesize for Teachers offers design and technology teachers a flexible collection of short, engaging videos that help pupils see themselves as inventors, engineers and problem solvers. Designed to fit easily into busy classrooms, these resources support creativity, resilience and real world understanding across both primary and secondary phases.
At KS2, the You too can be an absolute genius video collection, presented by scientist and inventor Fran Scott, explores what makes a great inventor. Through creativity, curiosity and perseverance, pupils are introduced to the realities of inventing, including prototyping, testing and learning from failure. Fellow inventors share where ideas come from and why giving up is never an option.
Fran also meets young inventors Sam and Benjamin Houghton, whose practical solutions to everyday problems make innovation feel achievable and relevant. Their inventions provide excellent case studies for pupils to analyse, helping them reflect on their own ideas using the same thinking processes as successful designers. For teachers, these videos work well as lesson starters, standalone sessions on growth and resilience, or as inspiration for a simple classroom invention challenge. With Fran Scott leading the way, the collection also supports conversations around inclusion and encourages more girls to explore future pathways in STEM.
Bringing industry into the classroom
For KS3, the How to build series takes pupils behind the scenes of some of the UK’s leading engineering organisations. These short films offer an ideal hook into learning, showing how the knowledge and skills taught in design and technology are used in real industrial contexts. Students can explore how engineers in the Royal Navy use CAD and CAM to design HMS Astute, or how Rolls Royce manages Just in Time production planning for complex jet engines.
The series also highlights the people behind the technology. At QinetiQ, pupils hear from sensor specialist Jen Pagani, who works on robotic engineering to reduce risk to life and adapt technology for civilian rescue services. These insights help teachers introduce discussions about future careers, apprenticeships and the ethical use of technology, while reinforcing the relevance of classroom learning.
Alongside these videos, BBC Bitesize for Teachers features career stories from professionals across creative, technical and construction industries. Together, these resources help teachers connect learning to real world application, broaden pupils’ career awareness and inspire confident, curious designers in every classroom.
Teachers can download the PDF version of this article, featured in Practice 2 2025, or access their digital copy here.
