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Design-Nation Launches NEW Student Membership

We are delighted to announce the launch of Student Membership at Design-Nation – a new initiative designed to support the next generation of contemporary craft and design talent.

As the UK’s leading network for contemporary makers and designers, Design-Nation is committed to nurturing creative practice at every stage. This new membership opens the door for students to connect with a national community of established practitioners, industry opportunities and professional pathways bridging the gap between education and professional practice.

Student Members will gain:
• insight into the UK craft and design industry
• opportunities to connect with our network of Design-Nation members
• access to talks, events and exhibitions
• early exposure to live projects, collaborations and career pathways

Hayley Banks, Membership Manager says:

“This new strand of membership is part of Design-Nation’s wider commitment to supporting sustainable creative careers and strengthening connections between education, industry and the professional craft sector. It ensures that students can begin building their creative networks early gaining confidence, experience and inspiration as they develop their practice.”

If you are ready to connect, learn and grow within a vibrant community of makers and designers, we would love to hear from you.

Click here to register your interest. You’ll receive an application pack and form by email. Deadline to apply is 1 June.

Image: Sally Scott

CASE STUDY

Case Study: Sally Scott

Sally Scott is a De Montfort University BA Design Crafts graduate and emerging maker. Sally joined Design-Nation as an Associate Member in January 2024, graduated from DMU in 2025, and was selected as a Graduate Member in February 2026.

Sally’s journey demonstrates how Design-Nation supports makers at key stages of development, from study into professional practice. Through engagement with Design-Nation, Sally has strengthened her confidence, expanded her connections across the contemporary craft and design sector, and developed new opportunities for her practice.

Sally has been selected to take part in her first major exhibition with Design-Nation this autumn.

Posted on

11.05.2026

Posted by

Liz Cooper

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