Four Offaly schools awarded European 'Digital School' status for digital teaching

Four secondary schools in Offaly have been recognised with the prestigious European ‘Digital School’ status for its outstanding contributions in digital teaching and learning.

The following schools in Offaly were all acknowledged for their contributin to digital teaching and learning; Coláiste Naomh Cormac, Ard Scoil Chiaráin Naofa, Tullamore College, Banagher College and Oaklands Community College, Edenderry.

Supported 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.

Principal at Coláiste Naomh Cormac, Kenneth Crann, said: ‘We are proud to have achieved this award as it displays the commitment of our teachers and students towards building digital capabilities amongst our school community. At Coláiste Naomh Cormac, we believe in providing our students with the best possible education, and that includes digital literacy. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff and students in embracing technology and using it to enhance the learning experience.’

At the awards ceremony held at Banagher College, nine secondary schools in the Laois Offaly Education and Training Board received their award on Monday, April 3. These schools took part in a new initiative called the SELFIE Digital Schools Academy1, 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.

Speaking at the awards ceremony where a total of 14 Irish secondary schools were presented with their award, Managing Director of HP Ireland, Val Gabriel, 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.

LOETB Director of Schools, Linda Tynan, described the Digital Schools Awards as having been ‘very beneficial for our schools’, adding, 'I’m really delighted that we’ve been able to support an initiative like this, where the digital innovation of our staff and students is formally recognised; it’s very gratifying to see that all our schools have been so successful within the Digital Schools Awards programme.’

Site Administration Manager at AMD, Rachel D’Alton, commented: ‘Congratulations to the teachers and staff in the schools that are receiving their awards today. With our commitment to inspiring the next generation of innovators, we at AMD are proud to partner with organisations like the Digital Schools Awards to advance digital education in Ireland and beyond. We congratulate those awarded today and thank you for your hard work in integrating digital technology into the curriculum. Promoting technology skills among students will undoubtedly have a positive impact on their future success.’

Anna Doody, Programme Manager at Digital Schools Awards, said: ‘Digital skills are crucial for the success of our young people in an increasingly digital world. It is inspiring to see these 14 Irish secondary schools recognised for their commitment to digital teaching and learning, and for their efforts to equip their students with digital skills for the future. Through the Digital Schools Award Europe, we are working to promote excellence in digital education across Europe, and these schools are setting a high standard for others to follow.’

This award is a testament to the school's commitment to providing students with a cutting-edge education and equipping them 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.

Secondary schools are encouraged to register for the Digital Schools Awards Europe 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.

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.