V&A Innovate

V&A Innovate is the V&A's annual National Schools Challenge for state-funded English secondary school students in Years 7, 8 and 9. Students work in teams of four to six to follow a human-centred design process and respond to one of three themes inspired by the V&A collections (Rest, Join, Reimagine).

Entries are submitted as two A3 design sheets and shortlisted teams are invited to pitch their ideas to a panel of industry judges at the museum. All student entrants receive a participation certificate, shortlisted teams receive judges' feedback, and winning teams are awarded prizes such as plaques, trophies and workshops with designers.

Teachers who register receive free resources (worksheets, films and collection-based inspiration) and a free V&A Innovate poster. Free online teacher events and bespoke V&A Innovate sessions for schools are available to help deliver the programme.

Only state-funded secondary schools in England may enter. The deadline for entries for Innovate 2025-26 is 6 March 2026; Pitching and Awards Day will take place in late June or early July 2026 at the V&A in London.

For registration, resources or questions contact innovate@vam. ac. uk.