Launched in 2016, the Digital Schools Award programme was created to recognised and support schools in their efforts to introduce digital technology in students’ academic development. Digital technology can both improve the learning experience for pupils across a range of subjects and provide young people with the necessary skills to work in an increasingly digital economy.

668 Scottish schools – around one in four – have registered to participate in the Digital Schools Award since its launch in 2016 and the programme aims to sign up a third of all Scottish schools by the end of 2019.

Supporting Schools and Students

35 primary schools and three secondary schools were recognised at a ceremony in Tulliallan Primary School in Fife, attended by Shirley-Anne Somerville, Minister for Further Education, Higher Education and Science as well as students, teachers and programme partners.

Industry giants HP, Microsoft and Intel operate and co-ordinate the Digital Schools programme; providing practical support and resources as well as financial commitments of £600,000 over five years. It is run in partnership with Education Scotland and Skills Development Scotland and supported by the Department of Education and Lifelong Learning.

Speaking at the ceremony, Shirley-Anne Somerville underlined the need for a strong focus on developing digital skills among Scotland’s primary and secondary-age students. She said: “The digital technologies sector makes a significant contribution to employment and economic growth in Scotland and is on track to be the fastest growing part of the economy to 2024.

“To fully benefit from the sector’s global opportunities, we must ensure our young people are prepared with the digital skills required for the workplace.”

Somerville also highlighted the importance of increased STEM engagement in schools, stating: “That is why the STEM Strategy includes a commitment to support digital skills development in early learning settings and primary schools through the Digital Schools Programme.”

STEM engagement in schools – or there lack of – has been a hot topic recently and the Scottish Government is investing heavily in schemes to encourage young people – specifically young women – to get involved in science-based subjects.

Industry Investing in the Future

Steven Grier, Country Manager for Microsoft Scotland insisted the Microsoft is committed to investing the future of digital industries by supporting students today. In enabling students to work in digital industries companies such as Micrsoft, HP or Intel are addressing potential workforce deficits they may encounter in coming years.

He said: “The Digital Schools programme is a fantastic example of how we, as an industry, are committed to supporting the next generation and ensuring that all young people acquire the skills they need to thrive in the modern digital workplace.”

Mr Grier continued, saying Microsoft looks forward to “seeing how it further enables students in Scotland to better prepare for the world of work and keep Scotland at the forefront of the current digital revolution.”

George Brasher, UK MD, HP echoed these comments, and also highlighted the need for increased STEM engagement, stating: “with recent reports showing employers are struggling to fill 43% of STEM-related job roles, the UK is clearly unprepared. HP believes it has a responsibility to partner with industry leaders and help close this skills gap.”