A North Ayrshire high school has become the first secondary in Scotland to
receive a prestigious accolade for digital education.
St Matthew’s Academy, Saltcoats, has achieved the Digital Schools
Endorsement Award.
The Digital Schools Awards (DSA) is a national awards scheme that
promotes, recognises and encourages a whole-school approach to the use of
digital technology.
St Matthew’s has achieved the Endorsement Award in recognition of projects
in the school, including:
A Digital Champions committee
Ongoing promotion of digital learning, including continued awards,
investment and professional development in digital skills
Ensuring there is strong learner voice
Filming and photography through media studies learning
Embedding digital technology in every aspect of learning and All teachers engaging in professional development and training in digital practice.
Headteacher Stephen Colligan said:
“We are delighted to be the first secondary school in Scotland to achieve this and it is testament to the wonderful work being done across the whole school – by both teaching staff
and the students themselves.
“We know the importance of digital technology in education today and we are
committed to preparing our pupils for further education, training and work by ensuring they have all the tools, knowledge and experience they need to
thrive.”
The digital environment at the school includes networks, hardware, software
and digital content resources.
Councillor Shaun Macaulay, Cabinet member for Education and Young People, said:
“Congratulations to Stephen, his teaching team and the pupils at
St Matthew’s.
“It is clear to see that there is a strong culture of using technology throughout
the school to support learning and pupils enjoy using it in lessons.
“Everyone at the school is invested in using technology to boost digital literacy
and enhance opportunities for our young people that will - in future – help
them to thrive.”
Pupils’ successes are celebrated on the school’s social media channels and
pieces of their digital art have been on display at The Harbour Arts Centre in
Irvine.
A spokesperson for the Digital Schools Awards said:
“St Matthew’s Academy is the first secondary school in Scotland to achieve this accolade
which is a testament to the great work taking place across the whole school.
“The award recognises the school’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a
high standard of digital education and ensuring a seamless digital experience
for learners at all levels.
“This acknowledgement not only validates the school’s sustained efforts but
also reaffirms its dedication to self-analysis and development in digital
learning and teaching. It reflects the staff’s adaptability and responsiveness to
the ever-evolving landscape of technology.”
