Digital Schools Award Scotland is a national programme, which aims to promote, recognise and encourage a whole school approach in the use of digital technology.
Stirling High became one of the first schools in Scotland to earn this recognition last year when it successfully completed the Education Scotland accredited initiative. This month Stirling High received a special plaque to mark this impressive achievement.
During a visit to the school by the awarding body, the school’s Digital Champions and Coding Champions highlighted their sector-leading work, while staff and parents hailed the positive impact of the 1:1 Chromebook initiative, which puts this latest mobile technology into the hands of all S1-S3 pupils to enhance their learning.
Transformational digital learning and teaching
Paul Cassidy, Stirling High School Headteacher said: “Digital learning and teaching lies at the heart of everything we are trying to achieve in Stirling High School.
"Our shared aim is the improvement in attainment through transformational digital learning and teaching. Our strategic roll out of 1:1 devices will enable all young people to develop the digital skills they need to thrive, by ensuring equity of access and availability at the point of need.
"Digital technology is a priority for all curriculum areas and subjects, and features on both school and faculty improvement plans. Staff are supported by our digital learning improvement group and our S1 - S3 Digital Champions.”
The Digital Schools Programme assesses:
- how a school is developing a digital culture
- their approach to digital learning and teaching
- the leadership and vision of the school
- the professional development of staff
- hardware and software available to young people and staff.
A pioneer among schools
Programme Coordinator of Digital Schools Award Scotland Aoife O’Connor said: “On behalf of all the partners involved in the Digital Schools Award Scotland, I would like to congratulate the whole school on achieving this award.
"The Digital Schools Award is recognised by Education Scotland, and we are delighted that the school has been among the first to receive this new award.
"We are confident that Stirling High School will be a pioneer among schools where digitally enhanced teaching and learning is helping our children and young people prepare for living and working in the 21st Century.”
Equip pupils with crucial skills
Councillor Susan McGill, Convener of the Children and Young People Committee, said: “Congratulations to everyone at Stirling High School on receiving this prestigious award, which shows the school is using digital technology to equip pupils with the crucial skills, helping them reach positive destinations.”
Cllr Margaret Brisley, Vice Convener of the Committee, said: “Putting digital tools in the hands of our young people will ensure they will leave school with the ability to use these technologies in the workplace, and it’s tremendous to see Stirling High being recognised for their innovation in this important area.”
Digital Technology is at the heart of Stirling High’s strategy of raising attainment, and the school is also recognised as one of the first Google Reference Schools in Scotland, following their Chromebook and GSuite roll out.
Picture details:
Stirling High pupils Liam McQueen (S3) and Ella Mackie (S3) with the Digital Schools Award