Colaiste Bhaile Chlair has been recognised for its use of digital technology at the European Digital Schools Awards today, a new educational initiative which aims to establish cross-border networks and learning.
Fifteen schools officially recognised for their digital education strategy at an event held at University College Dublin where Minister of Education Norma Foley congratulated them on their achievements via video.
The European Digital Schools Awards encourages and recognises innovation, collaboration, and skills development in the digital sphere.
With support from the European Commission’s Erasmus+ programme, technology companies such as HP and AMD, and a number of national education agencies, it is the only initiative of its kind in Europe.
A total of 100 secondary schools in five European countries took part in the pilot programme, with just 79 receiving the top award.
Following the success of the pilot, the initiative is now being made available to all schools in Ireland, Scotland, Lithuania, Serbia, and Slovenia, with plans also in motion to roll out the programme more widely across Europe.
Minister Norma Foley said that the awards are an excellent example of industry bodies and educational organisations working together to support schools as they continue to incorporate digital technology into the curriculum.
“The success of the pilot programme across Ireland has been inspiring, and it is great to see so many of our schools involved. With the initiative now available to all Irish schools, we hope to see many more getting involved.”
Anna Doody from Digital Schools Awards said technology has become embedded into our everyday lives in a way we never thought it would, and at an unimaginable speed.
“In schools, the transformation is especially acute following the proliferation of remote learning during the pandemic,” she said.
“As we guide our young people through their developmental years and into adulthood it is essential that we give them the skills, knowledge and confidence to be able to navigate the digital world effectively and safely.
“The European Digital Schools Award is not about urging teachers to use technology in the classroom. It is about encouraging an inclusive, and whole-school approach to digital learning, where everyone in the school feels supported and confident to adopt best practices.
“Our pilot programme exceeded our expectations, and we are thrilled to be announcing the roll out of the initiative across our five participating countries.”
