The School of Design at the University of Leeds is celebrating 150 years of legacy this year, marking a significant milestone in its rich history. Established in 1874, the school traces its roots back to the mid-nineteenth century when the textile industry was at the heart of Leeds’ economy, employing two-fifths of the city’s population. Amid growing concerns about European technological advancements threatening local industries, the Nussey family, prominent Leeds woollen manufacturers, recognised the need for scientific training to remain competitive. Their proposal for an educational programme for cloth workers, supported by The Clothworkers’ Company, led to the creation of The Department of Textile Industries at the new Yorkshire College of Science. This initiative laid the foundation for what would eventually become the School of Design.
As the School of Design celebrates this milestone, it embraces a forward-looking vision with the launch of the School of Design’s Professional Learning. School of Design Professional Learning reflects the school’s enduring commitment to industry collaboration and educational excellence, and is a key element of a forward-looking vision, dedicated to advancing the skills and knowledge of professionals across various creative sectors. By offering research-based education, production, testing and consultancy services, the School of Design Professional Learning ensures that both individuals and organisations can develop the expertise necessary to succeed in an ever-evolving industry landscape.
This global outreach is designed to ensure that the school’s educational offerings are not limited by geography, enabling professionals from across the globe to benefit from the school’s cutting-edge resources and expertise. Combining the latest academic research with practical, real-world industry expertise and supporting individuals and organisations to achieve their goals. Through its diverse programmes, the School of Design Professional Learning will continue the school’s tradition of offering practical solutions to the creative industry while nurturing the next generation of professionals.
The School of Design’s forward-looking initiatives are focused on education and reinforcing the ongoing partnership between academia and industry. By embracing this blend of tradition and innovation, the school’s professional learning will strive to ensure the School of Design remains a dynamic force in the creative industries for the next 150 years.
To mark this landmark year, the school has also released a special video that reflects on its 150-year journey, paying tribute to its past while looking forward to an exciting future.
