Teaching polymers through industry

Published 6th July 2026

A Polymer Study Tour is boosting subject knowledge and classroom confidence

Design & technology teacher Aisha Shaukat has shared how taking part in a Polymer Study Tour has transformed her confidence in teaching polymers, helping her bring more authentic industry examples and sustainability into the classroom.

Teaching across Key Stage 3 and 4 at Middlewich High School, Aisha joined the free, two-day residential programme to deepen her understanding of polymers and manufacturing processes. The experience combined expert-led sessions, practical activities, factory visits and opportunities to collaborate with fellow teachers, all designed to strengthen subject knowledge and support classroom practice.

One of the most valuable aspects of the tour was seeing injection moulding and extrusion in action. Observing large scale manufacturing gave Aisha a clearer understanding of how products are made consistently and efficiently, while inspiring simple ways to demonstrate these processes using accessible classroom resources, including modelling injection moulding with a hot glue gun and acrylic.

Bringing real world learning and sustainability into design and technology

Since returning to school, Aisha has embedded her learning into lessons by using more real-world examples, clearer explanations of manufacturing processes and a stronger focus on sustainability. Recycling, product life cycles and material selection now feature throughout her teaching, encouraging students to consider the environmental impact of design decisions.

Reflecting on the experience, Aisha believes industry engagement plays an important role in helping teachers keep subject knowledge current and make learning more meaningful for students. By connecting classroom theory with real manufacturing practice, teachers can improve understanding, build confidence and inspire more informed design thinking.

Looking ahead, Aisha hopes to continue expanding her subject knowledge through future professional development opportunities, including a Mining Masterclass, to help students better understand the complete journey of materials, from source through to finished product.