A celebration of schools from across the UK using Education Technology to support teaching and learning
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A celebration of schools from across the UK using Education Technology to support teaching and learning
The Edtech 50 Schools
Welcome to the
Edtech 50 Schools
Celebration
The Edtech 50 Schools is a celebration of the work Peter Rafferty, (Teacher and consultant), Tom Rees
going on in schools across the United Kingdom and (Ambition Institute), Jon Severs (Features Editor,
Northern Ireland, that use education technology to TES), Gareth Shaw (Ballyclare High School),
support great teaching and enhance learning. Kellie Williams (Teacher), Bukky Yusuf (Teacher),
Edtech 50 Schools is supported by Intel, Jisc, Mark Martin (Urban Teacher), Ollie Bray (Lego
NetSupport and in partnership with the Chartered Foundation), and Chair, Ty Goddard (Education
College of Teaching, Independent Schools Council Foundation and EdTech UK).
and TES. This report highlights digital flagship “The question is no longer whether technology
Ambition
schools who demonstrate a focused sense of what should have a place in the classroom,’ says the
is useful to them in terms of technology – whether it EEF, ‘but how technology can most effectively
be in supporting teaching, cutting teacher workload, be integrated in ways which achieve improved
collaboration across staff teams or consolidating outcomes for young people.”
knowledge, enhancing creativity and broadening The Edtech 50 also showed the power of assistive
experiences across the curriculum. technology to support learners. We believe that
There's a verve and commitment across these there is more work to be done on honing technology
Inspiration
EdTech champions, and they deserve real praise. to support all learners; including those with
To put yourself forward for a national award, sharing conditions such as dyslexia or children diagnosed
your learning and practice is a bonus for all schools on the autistic spectrum to thrive in the classroom.
who may want to develop digital. There is a priority Our long-term work at the Education Foundation
on safety and security, too. These Edtech 50 Schools suggests that teacher development and confidence
are making the sensible case that education is also crucial when developing digital. And we would
technology, if used well and coherently, can be like to see support for training – informal and formal
of real benefit to education, pupils and teachers. – across our schools.
The richness and commitment to supporting Leadership of the sector is vital and the
teaching and learning across England, Wales, partnership between educators, manufacturers,
Scotland and N. Ireland is uplifting. But we’ll need vendors and the EdTech businesses themselves is
to find out more of what really works. It was clear of utmost priority.
that context and implementation itself are key. We'll need to see better collaboration between
The Edtech 50 Schools has been chosen from schools and across the EdTech sector to benefit
nomination and the insight of our judging panel. the wider system. Our next publication, ‘Schools’
We asked schools to demonstrate a range of work Guide to Developing Digital’ in partnership with
using education technology, strategic focus and the Independent Schools Council will share more
an ability to articulate impact in ways they thought of the richness of these Edtech 50 award winners.
important as educators. It was challenging to award Across the UK we have education technology
the Edtech 50 Schools and this publication also strategies shaped by governments and educators
contains ‘ones to note’ and ‘ones to watch’ – schools and we hope the Edtech 50 Schools supports
that are using education technology in imaginative learning, innovation and knowledge.
and innovative ways. I would like to thank Russ Darbon and the team
The Edtech 50 Schools would not have at the Education Foundation, our judging panel,
been possible without the commitment of our partners and all the schools who applied for
our distinguished judging panel that include: Edtech 50 Schools.
Mark Anderson (ICT Evangelist), Osi Ejiofor
(Teacher), Sir Mark Grundy (Executive Principal Ty Goddard
of Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust), Martin Director, Education Foundation
Hamilton (Jisc), Amanda Hayward (ICT in Schools), Edtech UK
Corinne Latham (Principal, Seaview Primary School), ty@ednfoundation.org
Ian Phillips (Assistant Head, The Haberdashers' @EdnFoundation
Aske's Boys' School), Claire Price (Headteacher), @EdtechukHQ
1
The Edtech 50 Schools The Edtech 50 Schools
Department for Education Education Scotland Welsh Government
Technology can be one of the single most important Our children and young people can access more I am truly delighted that Welsh schools have been
elements in the educational arsenal. It can act as a information at the click of a button than at any point recognised as part of the Edtech 50, as a result of
catalyst for those who learn and those who teach, in history. their hard work in embracing the digital challenge.
transforming the experiences of both. We know that pupils love technology and that As part of our National mission for education in
We need schools and leaders to be able to it can have a significant positive impact on the Wales, we have committed to provide our learners
understand more clearly, the benefits that specific learning experience – and on outcomes – when put with high-level digital skills. I want all of our learners
technology tools can offer them. to good use in schools. So it is vital that education to grow up to be digitally competent, allowing them
I want our world class education sector to be systems are exploiting these opportunities and to evolve into enterprising, creative and critical
at the forefront of this conversation – and to be preparing our young people for life, learning and thinkers, giving them best chance in life. That’s why
shaping how innovation can help schools drive work in our digitised world. we’ve made digital competence a key part of our
efficiencies, help drive down teacher workload Through Scotland’s Digital Learning and Teaching exciting new curriculum, due to roll out in 2022.
and ultimately of course make the learning Strategy; our STEM Strategy; and Curriculum for There is much happening in Wales to support this
experience a better, more successful one, Excellence, we aim to make this a reality for children commitment, including The Digital Competence
for all children and young people. and young people in Scotland. Framework (DCF), the Hwb learning platform,
We also provide our education system with our ‘Cracking the Code’ programme, and the new
Rt. Hon. Damian Hinds, MP free access to a broad range of tools and services online personalised assessments. Additionally,
Secretary of State, through our Glow online learning environment, giving the Technocamps programme gives our learners
Department of Education further opportunities to capitalise on the benefits of the opportunity to develop computational thinking
digital for education. and coding skills, inspiring them to consider a future
We are seeing increased use of technology to in computer science, and beyond.
support and enhance education right across the We are also aware that increased digital
country and the Edtech 50 does a fantastic job of connectivity comes with its risks. That’s why
highlighting particular successes. I am delighted to we’ve introduced our Online Safety Action Plan,
see a number of Scottish schools recognised for that outlines the work we’re undertaking to enhance
their digital achievements and I hope they can online safety in Wales to keep our children and
inspire others to replicate that success. young people safe, and ensure they have the skills
they need to live safely and successfully in the
John Swinney, MSP 21st Century.
Deputy First Minister and
Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills Kirsty Williams, AM
Minister for Education
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The Edtech 50 Schools The Edtech 50 Schools
The Chartered College of Teaching Independent Schools Council Jisc
It is always a privilege to have the chance to hear We are delighted to work with the Education It gives me great pleasure to introduce the Edtech
about the high-quality practice taking place in Foundation on the Edtech 50 Schools project. It is 50 Schools, fifty schools that are leading the way in
schools across the country. The schools who have a great opportunity to celebrate the success that exploiting the potential of technology to transform
been part of Edtech 50 Schools have, of course, schools are having developing digital elements to teaching and learning for the better.
demonstrated thoughtful, reflective and purposeful improve educational outcomes. These are our digital In this booklet you will hear about fifty schools
uses of technology to improve outcomes for children trailblazers; striving so we can all understand how to that are using education technology in imaginative
and young people. But as well as this, they have get the best from our use of technology and to more and inspiring ways. Fifty real-world stories about
demonstrated a willingness to support others by easily transfer digital successes between schools. how edtech can help learners to develop and
sharing their experience and what they have learnt These schools have articulated the value of real flourish, selected by our judging panel of educators,
in the process of engaging with technology, and this partnerships either in collaborations between practitioners and edtech experts. From essential
kind of collegiality is hugely important in moving schools or with educational organisations. It is clear life skills like literacy and numeracy, through to
practice in the system forward. the investment that Edtech companies are making developing a deep understanding of fourth industrial
Seeing technology as a tool to support teaching in schools and educators is making an enormous revolution technologies like robotics and artificial
and learning, rather than as a goal in itself, means difference to schools’ ability to adopt and develop intelligence, edtech is here right now supporting our
supporting teachers. their use of technology. brilliant teachers and lighting a spark in the minds of
At the Chartered College of Teaching, we We are very proud of our independent schools pupils and students.
recognize that well-supported, highly-informed who are mentioned, the partnerships they have Here at Jisc our Janet network connects nearly
teachers are the key to ensuring all children and developed and their investment in innovative training half of the country’s schools to the Internet,
young people can achieve highly. This has been approaches in order to achieve their success. alongside the UK’s universities, colleges and
clear in the submissions for Edtech 50, too. There is We look forward to working together on the research institutes. From learners at primary schools
huge expertise demonstrated in how schools have Schools’ Guide to Developing Digital to support taking their first tentative steps on the Internet
ensured technologies selected are aligned to school schools; simplifying the information schools need to through to space research using Goonhilly Earth
needs, are carefully piloted and evaluated, and are understand; recommending technical standards and Station and Large Hadron Collider data feeds, Janet
utilised in a way that genuinely supports teaching advice for partnerships and sharing stories from underpins and binds together the UK’s research and
and learning. Ensuring technology use reduces organisations to enable the transfer of success education community. We’re really excited about
(rather than adding to) teacher workload is also between schools. the future of education, and the role that education
very important; we are therefore pleased to see technology can play in supporting teachers and
the emphasis given to this in many entries. Julie Robinson learners alike. The Edtech 50 Schools shows us that
We have been delighted to see the entries in General Secretary, ISC the building blocks are here for that to be a positive,
this year’s Edtech 50 and warmly congratulate the Ian Philips vibrant future full of potential.
schools involved! Chair, ISC Digital Group
Dr Paul Feldman
Alison Peacock CEO, Jisc
CEO, The Chartered College of teaching.
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The Edtech 50 Schools The Edtech 50 Schools
ENGLAND
Alsager School, Alsager, Cheshire majority of the Romanian learners were not fluent The Bentley Federation (King Charles Primary combining innovative learning techniques with
Ages: 11-18 in reading their own language, the team took this School and Bentley West Primary School), traditional teaching methods. For Bolton Boys,
www.alsagerschool.org feedback on board and added an ‘audio’ function. Walsall, West Midlands the focus is not on the device itself but what it
@AlsagerSchool Forty children have used the app since January www.bentleyfederation.org.uk gives access to.
Alsager School chose to highlight a community art 2018. All the children spoke positively about using the @thebentleyfed Technology is replacing the physical elements
and technology project its students are working on – app; including one pupil who said: “it’s hard but fun.” The Bentley Federation is a Computing at School of school. In the words of the Headmaster:
Sway Life Stories. This involves students working with Our judges were similarly impressed, liking the way Hub and provides support for other schools in the “Notability is the new jotter and file, iTunes U
people with dementia, their families, friends and this school ‘identified a problem and helped develop area of Computational Thinking, Coding and STEM. is the new textbook and hand-out, Showbie is
carers in the local community to create personalised a technological tool to solve it. This is a project with It uses Google for Education tools and Chromebooks the new pigeonhole and One Drive is the new
"Life Stories" using Microsoft Sway. It’s linked to the impact that can be reproduced elsewhere.’ – to drive innovation, freedom and promote positive locker. We make extensive use of Socrative
town’s bid to become a dementia friendly town. online values. and Educreations/Explain Everything and each
The concept is to combine aspects of Ashford School, East Hill, Kent It aims to empower children to become digital department also employs subject specific apps.”
reminiscence therapy with art and digital Microsoft Independent creators, not just consumers. To achieve this, the Our judges noted the tangible evidence of
Sway workshops. Ages: 3-18 schools have invested in an Immersion Room and academic accomplishment as well as the wider
At the same time as using Sway as a tool to help www.ashfordschool.co.uk VR headsets; alongside creation software like focus on the school’s efficiency.
people with dementia, the skills involved for young Ashford School, a co-educational independent CoSpaces. Plans are in place to develop teaching
people include communication skills, listening, boarding and day school, takes a strategic, holistic and learning using these tools in order to further Britannia Village Primary School, London
and creativity. Importantly, it is getting students approach to the deployment of EdTech with the inspire and embed technology in the curriculum. www.britannia-village.newham.sch.uk/
out into the local community and helping people result that there are positive outcomes for the school, For a number of years, the Federation has Through 1:1 access to Chromebooks and daily use
with dementia. students, teachers, parents and the local community. adopted NAACE’s self-review framework as the of Google Suite, Britannia Village Primary School
Friendships have been made and stories shared They have produced a digital strategy framework basis of the schools’ development planning. The has been able to improve computer literacy, digital
with the community coming together to support for the implementation of technology in the school. comprehensive approach to technology embraced skills and e-safety of not only the pupils but also
people living with dementia as one. The framework consists of four main strands, in these plans prioritises online safety guidance teachers and parents (many of whom were not
The judges love the idea of making Life Stories interlinked areas that are designed to result in (using Digital Leaders, Y6). The Federation were taught ICT at school).
books and see a potential to introduce the concept maximum impact. These are: Digital Leadership and awarded the 360º Online Safety Mark for the Moving to the next level, this Google Reference
into other schools. Or as another judge puts it: Vision, Streamlining of Digital IT and MIS systems, second time in July 2018. School is now planning to provide high quality
“What a fantastic way to improve learners’ digital Pedagogical Integration and Content Curation in the Impacts include many examples of financial computer science education so children are
literacy whilst also engaging with the community.” Curriculum. These three pillars are supported by savings through embracing new technologies, equipped to contribute and compete within a
a continuous Digital Teacher Training Programme. access to technologies for SEN children in the rapidly changing tech focused world. Further drives
Anderton Park Primary School, Birmingham As a result of this streamlined ecosystem, Federation’s Deaf Resource Base; as well as positive to improve children’s safety/security online are
www.andertonparkschool.org/ teachers are able to work in more effective ways, feedback from teachers on the quality of work in the pipeline; as well as to share learning and
@AndertonPark making workloads more manageable. There has deriving from the use of Green Screening, media, encourage improved IT education amongst partner
Pupils at Anderton Park Primary School speak over also been a significant impact on well-being and film and tools like Facerig. institutions. The current goal for the school is to
thirty languages and the intake includes the recent engagement for both students and teachers; Our judges thought this was a ‘brilliant submission, become a Tech Education Hub by 2020.
arrival of children from Romania. While this rich with students embracing and ‘co-constructing covering not just the what and how but also the why.’ Automatically collated, online feedback surveys
diversity is valued, staff are acutely aware that their own independent learning journey.’ Ashford from teachers, pupils and visitors include many
children were arriving in a country where they don’t School has produced a Digital Parenting booklet, Bolton School Boys’ Division, Bolton positive elements. A typical comment from a child
speak a single word of the language and are then aimed at giving parents a good start in dealing with Independent is: “it has helped me learn faster, be a better
expected to take national tests in years 1,2 & 6. the technological challenges their children face. Ages: 7-18 programmer and research things when I am stuck”.
One response was to move the IT curriculum As one of our judges noted – ‘very highly thought www.boltonschool.org/ 100% of teachers said that Chromebooks and G
forward to ensure that ICT has been woven into out digital strategy for both parents, pupils and staff. An Apple Distinguished School where 1:1 iPad Suite have benefited teaching and learning. Children
all areas of the curriculum which could then in turn This school makes excellent use of their digital use has transformed the way pupils learn and the have their own class websites which has impressed
begin to impact on English results. In January 2018, ecosystem to impact learning.’ school’s efficiency. iPad usage has been for several visitors and, indeed, our judges. In particular, one
a project was started to increase attainment and years an integral part of learning for over 2,000 judge notes the overall rationale for using tech in
progress in English through ICT. pupils, who utilise the technology in the classroom, teaching and learning, and ‘buckets of impact
The School has been working closely with on the move and at home. iPad ambassadors are analysis – great job!’
FlashAcademy to develop a flexible, immersive trained up to help their classmates.
app which can support children, (and their parents) The school’s vision for introducing 1:1 iPads was
to learn English reading across from their home about enabling innovative pedagogical approaches.
language. When it became apparent that the vast At the same time, its success is predicated on
8 9
The Edtech 50 Schools The Edtech 50 Schools
Broadclyst Community Primary, Broadclyst, There are iPads, apple tv and laptops connected to They were also impressed by the real evidence Technology has been a key component in this
Devon wall mounted digital screens in all rooms across the of impact – both qualitative and quantitative. turnaround. Our judges picked up on this change in
https://bcps.org.uk/ schools. Pupils are taught basic coding and how to Caterham School is an Apple Distinguished School. school performance and overall thought this was a
@BCPSchool use a computer in their earliest years and these skills ‘brilliant submission, evidencing both the rationale
Broadclyst Community Primary is a Microsoft are developed as they move through the school. Copenhagen Primary School, London for using the tech and the impact that it has had.’
Showcase School which provides pupils with The key digital strategy is to remain at the www.copenhagen.islington.sch.uk
a project based learning driven curriculum. forefront of technological development in the field @CopenhagenP Denbigh High School, Luton, Bedfordshire
Projects are collaborative, encourage creativity of education. Activities are age appropriate within Copenhagen Primary School focuses heavily on Ages: 11-16
and reasoning; having a final tangible outcome the overall framework and include safeguarding and digital literacy as much as on traditional literacy www.denbighhigh.luton.sch.uk/
or product that can be shared with a real world parental engagement priorities. in order to engage its children in a love of learning. @DenbighHigh
audience. This drives all strategic inclusion of Impact is multi-layered, including across They do this with a strong emphasis on video Denbigh High School has developed a whole school
technology for pupils and staff. engagement and collaboration for pupils – and production, bringing their work to life using skills technology and learning strategy, covering all areas
The most spectacular example of this approach for staff with pupil assessment and behaviour of presentation, team work, and video editing, on of the curriculum and all key stages. It is a key element
is the school’s Global Enterprise Challenge (GEC). management, and for CPD (online, interactive). occasions involving authors like Peter Bunzl and of the school’s continuous improvement planning.
Each year, students aged 9-15 participate in teams ‘A very impressive submission,’ concludes one judge. Michael Rosen. The school operates a strategic approach to
across more than twenty countries in this business The school also recently made its own prospectus technology for learning. This manifests itself in a
enterprise initiative. It incorporates a wide range of Caterham School, Caterham, Surrey video with children themselves filming and directing variety of ways; all of which are importantly
business skills while encompassing many different Independent the shoot. underpinned by a consistently joined up approach.
elements of the school curriculum, putting the Ages: 11-18 Copenhagen Primary School collaborated From the use of Green Screen in History classes
children’s learning into a real-life context. www.caterhamschool.co.uk/ with the Institute of Education’s EDUCATE on World War One to instant video playback in PE
Digital technology underpins the way teachers @Caterham_School programme to measure the efficacy of EdTech. lessons, to the development of Apps by pupils,
plan, teach and collaborate. They use digital inking Caterham School, an independent co-educational The school was featured by BBC Good Food for technology is fully embraced at all levels. This also
wirelessly projected within media rich classrooms day and boarding school, aims to provide an its take on MasterChef. includes a priority on online safety for pupils, their
that enable a totally different and innovative education for life that blends the best of tradition parents and teachers.
approach to teaching. The school cites this with the exciting opportunities provided by new Danesfield School, Marlow, Buckinghamshire The school is an OfSTED Outstanding School and
approach as delivering sustained year on year technology. Technology is something which is www.danesfieldschool.com in recent exam results nearly a third of all students
high outcomes for children across the curriculum. embedded across the school, enabling pupils to @DanesfieldSchl gained at least three highest attaining GCSE grades.
Our judges liked the breadth of the digital offer, do things in class which would not have been This primary school is a Microsoft Showcase It is a multi-award winning establishment with
the range of applications used; and the team work. possible without it; ranging from video reflections School, as well as being one of only six Microsoft accolades ranging from selection by UNESCO as
And in the words of one: ‘how amazing it must be to on work, through to recording biological reactions Training Academies. the UK Case Study for ‘Using mobile technology to
be a part of the GEC and know that your school is down a microscope. Technology is completely embedded in the support learners from disadvantaged backgrounds’
responsible for it.’ The school has recently introduced an online school’s curriculum but teachers do not just use to being shortlisted on the BBC Radio 1 ‘Teen Hero
Digital Inquiry course. It requires students to technology for the sake of it. Its use is carefully Award – Make It Digital.’ Judges were impressed by
Canary Wharf College, Multi-Academy develop a particular digital skill and apply this considered to enable children to best fulfil the the commitment to making technology integral to
Schools, London learning to develop a product which solves a learning objectives of the particular lesson. learning and the impact on pupil outcomes, not only
Ages: 4-18 particular problem they have identified. Skills are The cultural shift necessary to embedding for their own pupils but for those of other schools.
www.canarywharfcollege.co.uk/ developed which will be of value immediately but technology (and the increase in devices) in the One simply commented: ‘Well done all!’
@CanaryWharfColl also in the longer-term: benefits around business classroom was assisted by training through
Canary Wharf College is a multi-academy trust skills, critical thinking, entrepreneurship and participation in the Microsoft Educator Community. Friars Academy, Wellingborough,
with two primary schools and one secondary on self-awareness. Staff Champions selected particular areas of Northamptonshire
the Isle of Dogs. In 2016, Caterham School opened its Innovation expertise/interest, from Minecraft to Skype to Ages: 11-18
Technology is a central tool that supports Centre and has run a number of different clubs QR code, which they were responsible for sharing https://www.friarsacademy.org/
teaching and learning at all stages and across all which aim to develop pupils’ technology skills across the school. @FriarsAcademyPE
areas of the curriculum. ICT helps to extend the outside of the curriculum...cyber security Adopting imaginative teaching skills, in the view This academy uses technology to enhance
learning experience through aiding the delivery of challenges, app-design competitions, Lego of the school, has resulted in pupils developing a students’ perception of the world around them
lesson content in every subject and allows pupils robotics, VEX robotics, a girls-only coding club. range of key life skills, making them ‘secondary to prepare them for the changing world away
to engage in their lessons through a variety of ways. Judges particularly remarked on the Digital Inquiry school-ready.’ The school is keen to highlight the from life in formal education.
The pupils are able to use resources such as Course, highlighting the use of digital skills to significant upturn within three years in its results, Technology underpins everything at Friars
Bee-Bots, iPads, robot animation kits and specialist address a real life problem, as well as the overall from in the bottom 10% of achievement in areas like Academy; students may not always be able to
equipment which helps to deliver a fuller curriculum. rationale for use of tech in teaching and learning. reading, writing and maths to joining the top 10%. express their thoughts and feelings in the same
10 11
The Edtech 50 Schools The Edtech 50 Schools
manner as others around them. Innovative use of generally a confidence and competence in both pupils Halcyon London International School, The school emphasises digital fluency across
technology allows another form of expression, and staff in getting the best out of the technology. London its work and as a senior leader says; “ We believe
another channel for sharing and receiving information The judging panel thought Godolphin’s submission Independent we have a duty to provide our students with an
that may go unseen or misunderstood in the usual was a ‘brilliantly set out exposition’ on how and why Ages: 11-18 education for the 21st century where effective
day-to-day context. the school has taken this approach, incorporating https://halcyonschool.com/ and innovative use of technology is important to
A staff Tech Team has been created to manage independent evaluation feedback; combined with @HalcyonSchool the demands of the modern world.” It is important
the delivery of Microsoft 365 across the Academy; validated ideas to support a transformation in Halcyon London International is an International for the school that much of this work is also led by
working together to bring different perspectives teaching and learning. The school hosts the West Baccalaureate School based in the centre of student Digital Leaders – this includes hosting many
and experiences that are shaping knowledge and London Regional Training Centre for Apple. London. Committed to innovation, collaboration international visitors to the school; accessing a range
understanding. and community, its intake from around the world of learning activities off site and then sharing their
A junior Tech Team has also been set up to Hadrian Primary School, South Shields consists of 43 nationalities. Pupils experience a experiences with students back at school.
capture a student perspective. They are now www.hadrianprimary.org/ challenging academic programme combined with One pupil said, “We were able to introduce
training to use an in-house mobile radio station @Hadrianprimary an innovative approach to wellbeing, which is visitors to some apps such as Showbie and Nearpod.”
for future broadcasts. As a school with ‘a huge percentage of children with underpinned by an integrated digital environment. The new academic year will see teachers
A vertical English intervention group uses Sway to EAL from different backgrounds’, getting children to The school is very clear about why and how it becoming certified Apple Teachers. Hove Park is
write and share a student newsletter; this is shared understand technology and use it well has become uses EdTech – digital tools are only present if they launching the Classroom App for Years 7-10 which
with students, parents and carers and is shown on a core theme. Hadrian Primary School has begun to ‘serve to support and/or transform what is going on will allow teachers to direct student learning inside
the screen in the school’s reception. integrate technology across all areas of school life. in the classroom.’ Every child has their own device the classroom more effectively.
Current work includes supporting local schools It aims to use technology to enhance the learning of and uses Google Suite for Education. As well as The school has recently introduced Everyone
to enhance their use of technology and a pupils, teaching, assessment and to enhance teaching Digital Citizenship, Halcyon School aims Can Code resources at the Valley campus to help
partnership with local business, Cummins UK. communication with and involvement of parents. to leverage the power of Augmented Reality and students to learn to code on iPad, with many
It has adopted Ireland’s ‘Digital Strategy for Virtual Reality and cites exemplary usage in subjects students choosing to continue their coding studies
The Godolphin and Latymer School, London Schools 2015-2020' document as its own – to as diverse as Biology and Spanish. Alternative independently at home.
Independent understand what strategies work best and to Realities enable students to immerse themselves in
Ages: 11-18 ’achieve great things in technology’. All the elements experiences outside the school walls from Machu John Lyon School, Harrow-on-the-Hill
www.godolphinandlatymer.com/ of the strategy are addressed including live Picchu to Antarctica or into Space. The school is a Independent
@GandLSchool assessments (using Seesaw), integrated teaching, Google Reference School and an Apple Regional Ages: 4-18
The Godolphin and Latymer school, an independent learning and assessment across the whole school. Training Centre. Judges liked the fact that the use of www.johnlyon.org/
day school for girls, defines itself as a ‘research- The school notes a huge impact in most areas. technologies is well embedded in the school that it @JohnLyonHarrow
informed’ school and is particularly proud of the These include having a purpose for writing through is ‘invisible', and that ‘pedagogy underpins decision John Lyon School’s digital strategy is informed by its
approach it has taken to the use of technology, on providing the children with a world-wide audience making and external agencies’ research underpins wider values. It fully embraces technology, but it is
its ‘1:1 iPad journey’ since September 2015. A digital for their work. For instance, pupils wrote poems strategic direction with the focus on outcomes.’ only used when it enhances learning outcomes.
strategy is firmly embedded in the school’s overall about Mohammed Ali and placed them on social The school, an independent boys’ school, has
approach to teaching and learning. There is an media. By the next day, his daughter had viewed Hove Park School, Hove successfully implemented a Bring Your Own Device
underlying philosophy that technology can amplify them and sent a message of thanks. Ages: 11-19 policy for all students, with content increasingly
great teaching, but not replace it. In Maths and Reading, by using Reading Plus, for www.hovepark.brighton-hove.sch.uk/ delivered and assessed online with a wide range of
The Godolphin & Latymer School has been example, or producing ‘YouTube How to Videos,’ @HpsHove media. General impact on learning has been positive
involved in filming for the forthcoming FutureLearn attainment has significantly improved. As a judge Hove Park School introduced 1:1 iPads in 2013 at a number of levels, with students taking more
(a previous Edtech 50 2018 winner) course from the comments, ‘the improvements in results and in and soon after was recognised for the first time ownership and responsibility for their learning and
Chartered College of Teaching entitled, ‘Using aspirations of pupils to succeed stand out. as an Apple Distinguished School. The devices freeing up staff time.
Technology in Evidence Informed Teaching and Technology is embedded across the school, are used in a multitude of ways to enhance Practicalities around bringing their own device,
Learning.’ As part of this project, the school but I like the way staff and pupils are still looking traditional learning methods. Staff have new maintaining it, and using it appropriately has fostered
provided footage of exemplar classroom practice, at ways to develop further and encouraging ways to engage students in their learning and close staff/student collaboration, including
for example using quizzing apps such as Nearpod, enjoyment to learn. Being able to reach a real powerful, interactive methods for assessing and providing a springboard for discussions around
Socrative and Quizlet, collaboration using G-Suite audience opens a window into the world and developing understanding. Students experience online safety and healthy device use.
apps and screen-casting using Explain Everything, has impacted on writing standards.’ greater choice and creativity for producing The school has established a Digital Innovation
The 1:1 use of iPads in particular and more widely the work, and can share this with each other, their Space, which students are designing and choosing
school’s use of technology has been independently teachers and the wider world with ease; also how to furnish. It will be used to encourage learning
evaluated; the report commending in particular the allowing parents a greater insight into their child’s in non-traditional ways, as a makerspace, with
fully integrated use of Google Suite, and noting more day to day studies. student projects and personal interests encouraged.
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The Edtech 50 Schools The Edtech 50 Schools
This will be a space to experiment with new For each student ANT includes the general Matthew Moss High School, Rochdale developing skills in collaboration and teamwork
technology such as Virtual Reality and robotics, context, behaviour, attendance and academic targets. Ages: 11-16 via coding projects, using Swift Playgrounds
to investigate how it may fit in to existing school Supplemented with accessible key documentation, www.mmhs.co.uk/ (an iOS coding app). Using drones, this creates
curricula and to also give students an opportunity there is fast access to relevant teaching strategies and @MathewMossHigh an immersive learning experience for children.
to learn about technology and issues which fall clear referral routes to specific staff. It allows teachers Matthew Moss High School has a strong culture of Staff have noticed that children who may not be
outside of the scope of their lessons. This is seen to share strategies on what works with each student, using G-Suite as the basis for communication. This is the highest attainers in some subjects have great
as vital given that we ‘cannot predict exactly what the Inclusion team to add supporting documents for complemented by using carefully selected services success with Swift; beginning to help others in
developments will occur in the future.’ all colleagues to utilise and finally, to quantify levels which are integrated, following discussions between their classroom.
of support in a concise and transparent way. department leads, teachers and the IT Support team. Another significant impact of technology has
Layton Primary School, Blackpool Staff feedback suggests a strong appreciation This leads to a robust and stable IT provision that been experienced by the high percentage of
www.layton.blackpool.sch.uk of ANT as a support mechanism. Our judges are enables rather than hindering teaching and learning. children for whom English is an additional language,
@LaytonPS similarly positive including making the observation The school is keen to highlight its partnership and not spoken at home. Taught photography and
Layton Primary School operates its so-called 5Rs that the approach is ‘useful in schools – as support with Tassomai, (an EdTech 2018 ‘One to Note’ recording skills have given the most reluctant
for its children and staff: resilience, reflective, teams often have specialised knowledge that is not product) used to help boost attainment in GCSE speakers a voice, and reluctant writers, a purpose.
risk-taking, resourceful and relationships. For the always shared with ‘mainstream’ teachers. And again science. It has resulted in the best GCSE science Self-recording of spoken English has proven to be
school, though, technology is not additional to the they find it ‘really fascinating to see how the school grades the school has seen with over 7% of students a great way for pupils to practise, self- assess and
5Rs but goes hand in hand with such qualities. have been successful in taking their own bespoke getting the highest possible grade. Over half of the improve language acquisition. Judges love the many
Children use their devices as a digital pencil case route to using tech to support teaching and learning.’ cohort were above 55. examples of impact here; but especially the success
enabling them to be resourceful learners. Having 1:1 Mathew Moss also run a voluntary Saturday with EAL and more reluctant learners. Apple’s North
devices also ensures inclusivity for every single child London Design & Engineering University school session where local sixth formers are paid to London Regional Training Centre is based at
no matter of their educational need nor ability. For Technical College, London coach their peers. This year, the sixth form students Woodberry Down Primary School.
teachers, a device for each of them has had a huge Age: 14-19 were able to look at Tassomai's data to identify any
impact on their workload – they spend more time https://www.ldeutc.co.uk/ problem areas, and say “actually, I can see you’re Newington Green Primary School, London
looking at how children learn and this feeds in to @LDEUTC finding this particular subject tricky so let’s work on http://newingtongreen.co.uk/
how teachers give voice feedback. Time can then London Design and Engineering UTC (LDE UTC) that today”. The judges feel that ‘here is an example @NGpupils
be spent developing their subject knowledge. is a mixed University Technical College on the of integrated educational technology impacting on a Newington Green Primary School demonstrates
None of these developments and successes University of East London campus in the Royal school at all levels.’ One notes the real-life changing good practice in the use of digital resources and
came about by accident. The school embarked on Docks area of London. outcomes… ‘complemented by canny involvement technologies to support and enhance opportunities
a long-term strategic journey around six years ago, It’s a high tech school where academic excellence of sixth formers in a tutoring capacity. Fantastic!’ for all learners regardless of age or ability. This is
at which point educational outcomes were rather and employer partners combine to create the next across the curriculum and subject areas.
poor. Today – Layton Primary has 1:1 devices, was generation of ‘confident, work-ready individuals.’ New Wave Federation, Hackney, London It does this informed by a comprehensive digital
graded as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted, and has been in The curriculum is delivered through interesting and Grazebrook Primary School strategy, covering everything from staff CPD, to
the top 1% of schools in the country for progress. exciting employer-led projects, enabling learning by Shacklewell Primary School prioritising SEN and inclusion as part of its digital
An ‘Innovation Team' is tasked with making sure doing. Learning is relevant and memorable and Woodberry Down Primary School offer, to engaging and empowering parents. For two
the school can sustain innovation. Pupil iLeaders in boosts students’ academic achievement. newwaveteachingschoolalliance.co.uk/ neighbouring schools, Newington Green is the
school lead staff meetings and go into classes to A cohort of the college’s Y13 Digital Media @NewWaveFed Digital Technical Lead.
teach their peers and teachers, embedding the students were graded ‘Double Distinction’; being The New Wave Federation consists of three primary Introducing Office 365 and cloud solutions has
school’s motto of 'Growing great minds together'. able to demonstrate real-world projects such as schools working together in Hackney. There is a already brought about a change in work practices
Our judges thought this was ‘a fantastic success published Apps and VR animations with organisations focus on using mobile devices (iPads) as a tool for and workflow. For pupils, including some of the
story.’ Layton Primary School is an Apple such as Augmentifyit, Fujitsu and Water Aid. learning with a range of technology on offer to youngest, EdTech use has provided them with an
Distinguished School. Working with real employer briefs focusing on VR ensure that the computing curriculum is both broad outlet for their voice. Apps such as Seesaw enable
and AR technologies and Digital Media assignment and engaging. pupils to articulate their thoughts and opinions more
Leeds West Academy, Leeds work, LDE UTC is underpinned by a whole school The Federation has a digital strategy team which readily than if they had to note them down.
Ages: 11-19 themed learning approach, using technologies such supports teachers to integrate technology in their Probably the greatest impact of EdTech use,
www.leedswestacademy.org.uk/ as 3D printing, robotics, VR, AR and LEGO. teaching, while there’s also an expectation that the school believes, is through the use of LGfL
@LeedsWestWay As one judge puts it, about LDE UTC’s subject leaders have a responsibility to embed the resources such as Busythings, J2e and an
The Leeds West Academy have created a bespoke programming robots project, – consisting of a purposeful use of technology into their teaching. assortment of Augmented and Virtual reality
online system called the 'ANT ' to support all collaborative task to get a Nao robot to ski, plus a Impact has been seen in higher attainment packages. Indeed, the school won the LGfL
colleagues in the academy to understand the needs trip to the Italian Alps, and 3d printing: ‘I can’t un-see levels and in the continuous improvement in Key Digital Excellence award for 'Whole school
of all pupils. (ANT stands for Additional Needs Team). the skiing robots!’ Stage Two data. The schools are now focusing on use of LGfL resources'.
14 15
The Edtech 50 Schools The Edtech 50 Schools
One of our judges’ comments, 'here was a A long-term and comprehensive strategy Stephenson Memorial Primary School, iPad project has made a positive contribution to
fantastic canter through the tech supported underpins the school’s digital thinking. This includes Newcastle upon Tyne the school’s work to close the gap between the
interventions that the school has used and the the use of formal qualifications, such as Microsoft www.stephensonmemorial.co.uk/ progress of disadvantaged students with their
rationale behind them'. Office Specialist and Technical Associate to formally @SMemorial peers, particularly with reading and writing. And
recognise the students’ digital literacy. Judges This Apple Distinguished School sees iPads as staff have noticed a ‘massive rise in the confidence’
The Olive Tree Primary School, Bolton particularly like this commitment to students’ skills ‘important as a pencil’ and operates a very successful of autistic students.
www.theolivetreeprimary.com/ for their future. Other priorities focus on the use of 1:1 iPad leasing scheme for all children in key stage 2; In short, EdTech has ‘transformed the learning
@OliveTreeBolton real-time learning apps across the school. A thread soon to be rolled out to KS1. iPads and MacBook are environments of Springwell from four walled
The majority of the Olive Tree Primary School’s runs throughout the plan on the adoption of new available throughout the school alongside Apple classrooms to no walled classroom.’
students are from one of the most disadvantaged technology such as AI and Mixed Reality to enhance TVs and flexible learning environments.
areas in the UK. Most are from minority ethnic the learning experience. The school’s pragmatic Digital agility and integration is at the heart of the Swiss Cottage School Research &
backgrounds with English as an additional language. mantra is: ‘try it, measure the impact, evaluate it, school’s vision of engaging parents and pupils. The Development Centre, London
The school’s iPad one-to-one programme allows adopt or drop!’ considered and thought-through use of iPads is seen Ages: 2-19
the teachers and students ‘to reach a potential that as crucial to integrating technology into the school’s http://swisscottage.camden.sch.uk/
wouldn’t ordinarily be possible.’ Opportunities are Royal Hospital School, Holbrook, Ipswich learning; which includes project based learning. This special school in the London Borough of
created for students to direct their own learning Independent They sit alongside products in the school which Camden views education through the lens of making
through methods such as content creation, voice Ages: 11-18 mean that pupils can quickly display their work to it inclusive for all. It’s also a teaching school, leading
feedback and coding. www.royalhospitalschool.org/ the whole class and receive instant feedback. an alliance of school and professional partners who
Recorded voice feedback has significantly @RHSuffolk Results have been impressive. The school holds work collaboratively to promote innovation and
improved students’ understanding of teachers’ The Royal Hospital School’s approach to the use progress data that shows how a cohort that had 1:1 research in a range of areas, including pedagogy,
feedback and their ability to progress more quickly of technology, is comprehensive and ambitious. iPads made significantly more progress than a technology and teacher training.
compared to traditional handwritten marking. At its core, the school, a co-educational cohort that did not. In-school data indicates that The school makes use of professional learning
Teacher workload, too, has been significantly independent day and boarding school with children make good progress from very low starting communities, who work across the school with all
reduced through the use of digitised voice naval traditions, aims to make learning as relevant, points. In addition to higher attainment levels in staff and specialised teams. Consequently, the right
feedback. There’s a reduction in teacher workload contemporary, contextualised and as interesting as general, outcomes for SEN boy pupils have improved, learning technologies can be allocated to the pupils
of around 4.5 hours per week. possible. Technology is seen as a key to achieving as well as the school’s SAT results. This sort of against their personal learning intentions, including
The school indicates that students with EAL this, along with traditional teaching pedagogy. success contributed to Stephenson’s Memorial communication devices and specific apps – like
show particular improvement. Parental engagement The school highlights its use of augmented Primary School becoming North Tyneside’s first Snap and Core and Clicker and specialist hardware
is higher and this has been demonstrated recently reality to build an immersive art installation to Apple Regional Training Centre in 2015. and software.
by a Leading Parent Partnership award. The judges commemorate the centenary of the Armistice, The impact of technology across the school, and
find the Olive Tree’s submission: ‘short and to the and separately, its comprehensive approach to Springwell Learning Community, Barnsley for wider stakeholders, is channelled via the centre’s
point – this school has a clear goal to use tech to online safety and institutional progression. https://springwelllearningcommunity.co.uk/ online learning journal. This allows pupil progress to
reduce teacher workload, has achieved it and even It strives for excellence in the use of EdTech. @SpringwellLC be tracked over time. It also enables the capture of
won an award for their work.’ Mobile learning has been significant in the Springwell is a full age range special academy. formative assessments and to evaluate learning to
development of teaching and learning for over EdTech provides all students with an appropriate establish ‘summative assessment measures.‘ As a
Ribblesdale High School, Clitheroe six years. This commenced with a two-year curriculum that gives opportunities for academic, Teaching School, achievements are also shared and
Ages: 11-16 training programme for teachers; with a roll social and emotional progression. widely disseminated through events like 'What's
www.ribblesdale.org/ out of 1:1 devices in 2014. The school is now fully immersed in the iPad 1:1 Special about Special,’ which provide an insight for
@ribbweb The School is an Apple Regional Training Centre, programme. Blogging was introduced, highlighting its organisations into SEND education technology case
Ribblesdale High School has implemented a cloud and recognition includes a 360 Degree Online capacity to make a real difference to the children’s studies and projects.
first digital strategy. The use of OneNote Class Safety Mark and status as a national 'Beacon of learning. The platform to write for a real audience One of the judges commented that he ‘really
Notebooks allows students to produce work in Good Practice.’ gives genuine purpose, impacting positively on the liked how the school has embedded tech as an
a variety of ways, which best suits their learning Within its technology curriculum, the Key Stage 3 quality of their writing. Imaginative and effect use enabler in key processes like teacher training.’
style. Teachers are also able to provide real-time Compass module comprises a ‘carousel of digital of social media (e.g. ‘Honey I Shrunk the Pupils’ on
feedback, ensuring the opportunity for impact is skills, coding, creativity, workflows and problem YouTube) means there is a ‘buzz’ about the place;
maximised. It also gives the opportunity for teachers solving exercises to develop digital literacy.‘ attainment is up, negative behaviour incidents are
to provide feedback in a variety of forms, such as For one judge, this is a fantastic example of a school down, morale is high amongst all stakeholders as ‘we
video and audio. This not only saves teachers’ time, that ‘doesn’t just know why it is using tech in teaching continue to redefine learning and promote creativity’.
but often prompts students to react more readily and learning, but can point to its success in rising Evidence based on the tracking of achievement
than if it were in the written form. attainment and indeed has won awards for its work.’ data shows that the introduction of Springwell’s 1:1
16 17The Edtech 50 Schools The Edtech 50 Schools
The West Grantham Academy St Hugh’s, performance management targets for staff. The aim Witton Park Academy, Blackburn
Grantham is to achieve realistic innovation; ensuring staff are Ages: 11-16
Ages: 11-16 trained, confident and able to make and learn from https://witton.atctrust.org.uk/
www.wgacademiestrust.org.uk/ any mistakes. The local Community Learning Centre Witton Park Academy, a Google Reference School,
The West Grantham Academy St Hugh’s is has noted approvingly the drive to integrate recognises that its students’ lives are filled with
passionate about the role that technology can play technology into all learning. technology and wants them to feel at ease in ‘this
in the learning process, and encourages the use of A recent outstanding Ofsted report highlighted rapidly changing climate.’ In this context, the use of
iPads in the classroom and at home to deepen the the use of technology and the school is proud Google for Education and Chromebooks are seen
learning experience. It is a 1:1 iPad school. 50% of of its engagement with parents through Seesaw to enable students to become well-informed,
students are in receipt of the pupil premium. for Schools. responsible digital citizens and lifelong learners.
St Hugh’s is keen to highlight the way technology Judges are impressed by the use of technology It is clear about what it wants students and staff
is used to encourage independent learning. The to impact on results: ‘I also liked that they improved to achieve with the use of technology in education.
curriculum is designed to allow time for students to parental engagement with a simple initiative. Simple As one of our judges notes: ‘a lot of thinking has
study independently, following their feedback – via but effective.’ Another comments: ‘What an inspiring gone into how the tech is used in a nuanced way. ‘
a weekly e-statement, Showbie, Seesaw, Tassomai, success story!’ Staff use a variety of apps to organise,
Complete Maths and many other options. It enables collaborate and engage students in their learning.
learners to become increasingly independent. Wimbledon High School, London Comments and advice can be directed to pupils
A comprehensive strategic approach to Independent in real time; enabling them, also, to be supported
technology is now in its third year, allowing a Ages: 4-18 individually, discretely. Cloud storage also allows
progression to sharing successes with weekly www.wimbledonhigh.gdst.net/ students to work at school, at home, between
Sharing Good Practice Sessions and a move towards @WimbledonHigh the two.
ensuring all staff become Apple teachers. Uppermost in this school’s mind is the need to Witton Park uses technology to inspire and help
The school is one of the case study schools for equip its girls to navigate a fully digital world. nurture students to become independent and
the Chartered College EdTech online course. The Technology is embedded right across the school, curious learners. They are empowered to virtually
study focuses on modelling; dual coding and as a tool for enhancing learning, underpinned travel to parts of the world to experience the
collaborative writing. Another area of impact has by pedagogy and informed by a clear strategic scenes and sites that they learn about in History
been St Hugh’s project with Beaconsfield High direction. Wimbledon High School, an independent and Geography. The technology is knowledge
School. The latter’s Y12 students mentored St girls’ day school, is a Microsoft Showcase School enhancing. From the teachers’ perspective, many
Hugh’s KS4 students two mornings a week via and the use of Teams and OneNote is the positive impacts are cited from the use of G Suite,
FaceTime. Using iPads, this enables students who cornerstone of its approach. ranging from time, cost and paper savings to earlier
have recently experienced success in their GCSE The strategic focus is on developing and diagnosis of any student subject misconceptions.
exams to support those who are preparing for them. measuring real added value to transform the
Our judges were really positive about this school’s teaching. This is perhaps best captured
improving school: ‘Absolutely wonderful reading this in the school’s STEAM philosophy, where cross-
– very clear from the submission how the school is curriculum thinking, making and experimentation
making thoughtful use of tech and with results that are ‘at the heart of what we do.’
speak for themselves. Great to hear the student All subject departments work with STEAM, aided
voice represented.’ by Scientists in Residence located in the school’s
new STEAM Lab. This enabling space can help break
Whitefield Primary School, Liverpool down barriers between subjects, ensuring pupils are
www.whitefieldprimaryschool.co.uk/ confident, critical thinkers; with a creative approach
@WhitefieldPS to problem-solving. Judges were impressed with
Whitefield Primary School has embedded the rich vein of feedback provided by the
technology across the curriculum through iPad use. technology, used by teachers to shape future,
The school is now also using VR to support bespoke, (and according to the school’s impact
foundation subjects and literacy. E-safety is taken measures), much faster-paced lessons. Wimbledon
seriously and White Field Primary has operated High School’s creative and well thought-through
eCadets, (a 2018 EdTech award winner) for five years. approach to technology was also noted. As one
New technology is explored using the Lesson judge comments: ‘Loved the STEAM room, it’s like
Study approach, supported by policy and a sauna, but for tech!’
18 19You can also read
