DIGITAL SCHOOLS OF THE FUTURE: WOKING PRIMARY SCHOOLS LAUNCH PARTNERSHIP WITH DISCOVERY EDUCATION
Two Woking primary schools have launched a major new initiative to boost the use of digital technology and content in their classrooms.
New Monument and Broadmere Primary and Nursery schools have entered into a professional development partnership with Discovery Education, part of Discovery Communications, and one of the UK’s leading providers of digital content to schools.
The 3 year programme will see staff, pupils and even parents receive tailored training and support to increase their confidence and skills in using technology. Teachers will be trained as ‘digital champions’ and encouraged to use digital media right across the curriculum, while pupils will benefit from access to high quality digital resources in every lesson. The new partnership is focused on transforming the two academies into digital schools of the future, and preparing pupils for the challenges of tomorrow.
Judy Hall, Head teacher at New Monument Primary Academy said:
“This year we have developed a whole school ICT and Computing vision and our partnership with Discovery Education is an integral part of that. We want to make technology available and accessible for all our pupils, and to give our staff the confidence to use it in every lesson – not just computing. We’ve seen first hand how digital resources can really boost pupil engagement and achievement, and we’re delighted to have the opportunity to work with Discovery Education to transform our schools in this way.”
Some of the activities planned over the next 3 years include pupil workshops in digital literacy and robotics, and advanced teacher training in both maths and literacy, with a focus on using digital technologies to boost attainment in these core subjects. The schools’ partnership with Discovery Education will also give pupils access to a range of cutting-edge learning resources, including the award-winning Dinosaurs Module, part of the Discovery Education Espresso service. The module, which uses stunning Discovery Channel CGI footage to bring dinosaurs into the classroom, was the winner of this year’s national BETT Award for best Early Years Digital Resource.
By working in partnership with Discovery Education, teachers at New Monument and Broadmere will also benefit from membership of The Discovery Education Community, a network of education professionals who are passionate about transforming the learning experience with digital media. The community connects members around the world through events, virtual conferences and social media.
Catherine Howard, Discovery Education’s Director of Professional Development said:
“ We’re excited to be partnering with New Monument and Broadmere, and looking forward to working with them to build digital capacity and expertise amongst their staff. The 3 year professional development programme will help both schools to achieve their goal of using classroom technology to maximise learning opportunities for every child, while integrating digital media into every area of the curriculum. Our long-term partnership will really support teachers as they prepare today’s students to meet tomorrow’s challenges. ”
For more information about Discovery Education’s Professional Development visit www.discoveryeducation.co.uk/pd
