The Design Council's School Prize 1979

Abstract

Competitions are often criticised because, it is said, the selection of a few outstanding projects creates a false impression of the general standards achieved in schools. Other observers are concerned that non-winners will be discouraged and opt out of careers in the very fields to which the competition is seeking to attract them. Competitions are, however, an important way of helping to raise standards in secondary education and subsequently in industry.

The Design Council's Schools Design Prize, now sponsored by Rolls-Royce Limited was sponsored by The General Electric Company for the first three years; during that time it has done a great deal to stimulate interest and awareness in design both in schools and among the general public. Over 600 schools have been involved in the scheme, which is an encouraging response.