Teachers in Residence Placement: George Bedford

Published 18th August 2025

George Bedford, Subject Leader of Product Design at St Richard Reynolds Catholic College, has returned from an inspiring four-day placement at Foster + Partners as part of the ‘Teachers in Residence’ programme, organised by The Design & Technology Association.

During his time with the world-renowned architectural practice, George experienced first-hand their approach to materials, design, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. A particular highlight was the Foster + Partners material library, an extensive resource showcasing sustainable solutions, including waste-derived products used to create 3D printing filament.

Already committed to recycling filament at school using a heat press and reprocessing system, George found the company’s sustainability focus energising.

“Seeing how Foster + Partners integrate sustainability into their design process was eye-opening. Their use of waste products for advanced applications made me think about how I can embed even more of these values into my teaching,” George said.

He was particularly struck by the level of technology on display, much of which goes beyond what current school curricula reflect. From robotic arms to advanced AI-assisted design tools, and even augmented reality (AR) visualisation for clients, George saw possibilities for adapting these techniques into his own classroom.

“The augmented reality tools they use are incredibly powerful and with our iPad-based learning, I can make elements of that accessible to my students. It’s about showing them industry-level processes in ways they can engage with right now,” he explained.

George also valued the collaborative nature of the programme. Working alongside five other teachers from across England, he took part in discussions that cut across disciplines, teaching contexts, and resource levels.

“It was great to have such a mix from state schools, independents, grammar schools because you really get a sense of the range of challenges and opportunities. And the professionals at Foster + Partners were just as interested in what we do as we were in their work.”

Inspired by the visit, George is now planning to create his own school-based material library, giving students hands-on access to innovative samples and sparking conversations about sustainability, design innovation, and career possibilities. He’s also looking at introducing a mini architecture project that integrates model-making, AR, and sustainability themes.

For George, the experience was a reminder that the design world is evolving rapidly, and that connecting students to real-world practice is essential.

“This programme bridges education and industry in a way that makes learning relevant. I want my students to see themselves as problem-solvers, innovators, and creators, just like the professionals I met.”

The ‘Teachers in Residence’ programme continues to forge links between schools and industry, ensuring the next generation of designers are inspired by the latest thinking, tools, and sustainable practices.

Email: amelia.wright@designtechnology.org.uk for more information about future opportunities.