Larkhall Academy is one of only two secondary schools in Scotland to be recognised for their efforts in protecting pupils online.
The high school has completed a pioneering education initiative developed to encourage digital learning amongst children.
And the school were officially recognised by Education Scotland on Tuesday, Septemeber 17, for their commitment to promoting digital skills in the classroom.
The school was joined by more than 70 secondary and primary secondaries at the largest ever Digital Schools Awards, held at St Mungo’s High School, Falkirk, where a total of 114 schools were officially recognised.
Larkhall Academy was also one of just two secondary schools officially recognised for their commitment to protecting pupils online.
The Cyber Resilience and Internet Safety (CR-IS) Badge was launched in February 2019 to provide education professionals with the resources and support required to help pupils navigate the digital world.
Ian Vosser, the faculty head of digital literacy and enterprise at Larkhall Academy, explained: “Our whole staff team is completely focussed on giving all our learners educationally rich digital experiences and they have worked tirelessly to ensure we are developing the right skills and qualities for their future careers.
“Digital literacy is weaving itself across every element of the school’s curriculum.
“There are young people using a range of digital devices to conduct science experiments, undertake video analysis of sport performances, every first year learner has programmed their own digital device and young people are creating bespoke software packages to solve real world problems.
“As well as using technology to support the excellent teaching and learning happening across the school, there is also a focus in developing technical skills to ensure that jobs in mobile web development, big data, cyber security, digital business development, communication and digital marketing become accessible destinations for the young people when they leave school.”
And Andy Smith, Larkhall Academy’s head teacher, said: “There is some outstanding use of technology across the school and we hope to build on this further to improve learning for our young people.
“Larkhall Academy is incredibly proud of all the staff and young people who have contributed towards achieving this award.
“We are building a strong digital community where all young. people are supported and can access a learning experience suitable to their needs.”
The Digital Economy Minister, Kate Forbes, said: “My congratulations to this year’s award winners, who are being rightly celebrated for their dedication and enthusiasm for digital.”
