THIRTEEN East Renfrewshire schools have been recognised at a national event for promoting digital skills in the classroom.

Barrhead High, St Ninian’s High, Woodfarm High, Carolside Primary, Eaglesham Primary, Hillview Primary, Kirkhill Primary, Neilston Primary, Our Lady of the Missions Primary, St John’s Primary, St Joseph’s Primary, St Thomas Primary and St Mark’s Primary have all received a Digital Schools Award from Education Scotland. 

Jannette Black, Hillview Primary headteacher, said: “The pupils have really embraced ways to develop their digital skills across the curriculum. 

“We have pupils who have chosen to train as Digital Leaders throughout the school and these pupils are able to support their peers and lead learning. 

“The Digital Leaders helped to plan and publicise a fantastic Digital Photography Competition for pupils, parents and carers and staff which was a wonderful celebration of the creative use of digital technologies. 

“Our school is ambitious for our pupils and digital skills are essential for learning, life and the world of work.”

The Digital Schools Award recognises schools which have successfully implemented digital learning within the classroom and aims to equip the next generation with the necessary skills to shape Scotland’s future as a digital nation.

To achieve accreditation, schools are required to self-assess their developments in digital technology under common practice areas of leadership and vision, digital technology for learning and teaching, school culture, professional development and resources and infrastructure. 

The programme promotes skills such as digital innovation and creativity, computational thinking, the use of technology to promote higher order thinking skills, support for digital equity and access, and the need for cyber resilience.

Councillor Paul O’Kane, convener for education, said: “It is fantastic to see so many East Renfrewshire schools honoured with this award.

“To have 20 of our schools already having reached this milestone, and all others working towards it, highlights the ambition we have for all our pupils to be equipped with the digital skills they will need.”

To find out more, visit www.digitalschoolsawards.co.uk.