European Digital Schools awards for five Offaly secondary schools

Five Offaly secondary schools were this week among 14 to be recognised with the prestigious European ‘Digital School’ status for their outstanding contributions in digital teaching and learning.

Backed by global technology giants HP and AMD, along with government and education partners, the Digital Schools Award Europe aims to promote digital teaching and learning and equip pupils with advanced digital skills.

To achieve the award, schools must demonstrate a whole school digital strategy, evidence of how digital technology enhances learning, and a commitment to ongoing teacher professional development. The programme has already highlighted innovative and collaborative approaches to integrating digital technology in teaching and learning, inspiring other schools to follow suit.

The five Offaly schools were Ard Scoil Chiaráin Naofa, Clara; Banagher College; Coláiste Naomh Cormac, Kilcormac; Oaklands Community College, Edenderry; Tullamore College

Since the programme launched in Ireland in March 2022, 11% of Irish secondary schools have signed up, with a target of supporting 20% by the end of the year. The Digital Schools Awards Europe has been established in five European countries, and an additional five countries will pilot the programme in 2023.

At the awards ceremony held at Banagher College, the 14 schools received their awards. These schools took part in a new initiative called the SELFIE Digital Schools Academy, which aims to support sustainable digital education practices in European schools. The academy provides schools that have completed the European SELFIE self-reflection tool with digital education mentor support and professional development resources, focusing on themes such as leadership, collaboration, infrastructure, professional development, teaching and learning, assessment, student digital competences, STEAM education, and remote learning.

The SELFIE Digital Schools Academy will open to all schools starting from September 2023. The programme will help promote social inclusion and equality by connecting schools with mentor schools to enhance their digital practices. Teachers can expect to receive valuable mentorship and support to help them plan and develop their school's digital strategies. The programme will work with schools to connect them with innovative digital mentors, who will help them explore approaches and adapt them to their own settings.

Speaking about the awards programme Val Gabriel, Managing Director at HP Ireland, said: ‘The Digital Schools Award Europe is providing a vital platform for schools to assess and develop their digital capabilities. These 14 Irish secondary schools have demonstrated outstanding leadership in embracing digital technology as a tool for enhancing education.

Secondary schools are encouraged to register for the programme, which is free to all schools, through the www.awards4selfie.eu website where they can undergo a self-evaluation of current practices and standards.