It’s a digital distinction for Mulhuddart school

LADYSWELL National School Mulhuddart has become one of the first schools in Ireland to be named a

‘Digital School of Distinction’.

The school joins a growing group of primary schools nationwide to receive the prestigious award.

Launched by the Minster for Education and Skills, Ruairí Quinn, last September,

‘Digital Schools of Distinction’ is a flagship award programme that promotes, recognises and encourages best practice use of technology in primary schools.

Primary schools around Ireland are being urged to sign up for the programme, to avail of a comprehensive package of support and advice.

HP Ireland and Microsoft Ireland are providing support to the programme for five years, including a financial commitment of

?¬300,000 in the first year as well as the provision of practical support and resources.

Ladyswell Principal, Dr Daithí � Murchú, said that the programme offers a

“real opportunity

? for primary schools to build on their digital capabilities and utilise modern technologies in

“meaningful and authentic ways

?.

“Registering to become a Digital School of Distinction was an obvious move for Ladyswell NS as we are very aware that technology is playing an ever more important role in children’s education in 21st century classrooms,

? he said.

“We are constantly striving to be at the forefront of the movement to integrate ICT successfully in the classroom and to create learning environments relevant to pupils’ needs.

“The registration and validation process to become a Digital School of Distinction has been seamless with excellent support throughout. We are excited about the opportunities and future possibilities this programme offers our school and we are very proud to be a Digital School of Distinction.

?

Minister Quinn congratulated Ladyswell and all schools who have already signed up to the programme.

“The Digital Schools of Distinction programme is an important platform for primary schools which can help to advance the ICT agenda in the classroom,

? he said.

“I would encourage schools who have not yet signed up to do so, so that they can benefit from the support and expertise on offer.

?

New digital schools receive a Digital Schools Classroom Kit that includes a HP laptop with Microsoft software including Windows 8 and educational apps as well as access to education ICT specialists.

A new set of

‘best

‘practice

? guidelines for schools has also been developed which will shortly be made available on the Digital Schools of Distinction website.

For further information and to register online, visit www.digitalschools.ie or follow @digital_schools on Twitter for regular updates.