Lanesfield scoops Apple award for use of technology
A Wolverhampton school has been recognised for innovation, leadership and educational excellence through the way it uses technology.
Lanesfield Primary School has been named an Apple Distinguished School after demonstrating its commitment to continuous innovation in education by using Apple products to inspire, imagine and impact teaching and learning.
Apple says that its Distinguished Schools show they have a clear vision for how technology-rich environments support learning goals. By incorporating technology into their lessons, they are empowering students to lead, learn and thrive, to discover new opportunities, and to make their world a better place.
To secure the award, the school had to share evidence of classroom practice and examples of pupil work, its approach to staff development, and how technology supports learning across the curriculum.
Headteacher Zoe Rollinson said: "For us, this recognition is really about what our children experience every day. iPads are not used as a substitute for excellent teaching, but as a tool to enhance it. “Our pupils use technology to create, collaborate, problem-solve and develop the digital skills they'll need for the future, while still benefiting from the broad and balanced curriculum you'd expect in a primary school.
"A big part of this is inclusion. One of the things we're most proud of is how technology helps us make learning more accessible for all children. For example, learners can use translation tools and visual supports to help them access learning while developing their English, while non-readers and emerging readers can benefit from text-to-speech functions, audio instructions and multimedia resources, enabling them to learn alongside their peers.
"We also use accessibility features such as speech-to-text, dictation and annotation tools to support children with a range of additional needs, helping them to communicate their understanding more independently and confidently.
“For staff, this award recognises the significant work they have put into developing their practice and embracing innovative approaches to teaching and learning. It also gives us access to a global network of schools who are at the forefront of educational technology, allowing us to continue learning from others and sharing what works well in our own setting.
"Ultimately, we're proud of the accreditation because it validates the work our staff do every day and the opportunities it creates for our children – a more engaging, inclusive and effective learning experience for every child."
Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, added: "This is a fantastic achievement for Lanesfield Primary School and a well-deserved recognition of the commitment and creativity shown by staff and pupils.
"Technology has an important role to play in education when it is used to support excellent teaching and help every child reach their full potential. Lanesfield has shown how digital tools can enhance learning, promote inclusion and give children the skills and confidence they need for the future."
