We are excited to announce the shortlist for the annual V&A Innovate National Schools Challenge 2023 – 24. V&A Innovate is a core part of our mission to champion the vital place of creative education in the curriculum and to nurture the change-makers of tomorrow. Teachers from all over England delivered the project over the Summer and Autumn terms to over 2,400 students, during lessons or as part of lunchtime or after–school clubs. Students in years 7, 8 and 9 worked closely in teams of 4-6, to come up with ideas to help solve real-world problems. 

This year’s Innovate themes were Restore, Play and Sense. These themes challenged students to use design to breathe new life into materials, objects and buildings, encourage more play and playfulness, and support themselves and others with the senses and universal accessibility in mind. Students investigated the themes, undertook research in their school or local area, and used iteration and prototyping to come up with an idea that could have a positive impact on people and the planet. Teams then entered two design sheets describing their design journey and their idea. From the 226 entries received this year, our industry judging panel helped select ten finalist teams who are invited to the V&A in South Kensington on 19 March to pitch their ideas to the judges.