Minister supports innovative digital programme which breaks down barriers to learning
Speaking at a LIFE event at Casllwchwr primary school yesterday, Education Minister Leighton Andrews praised the programme for using the latest technologies to break down barriers to learning.
Developed by the school’s headteacher, Simon Pridham, in conjunction with Swansea Council, the LIFE programme (Lifelong Intergenerational Furthering Education) is integrating digital technology into the teaching and learning experience in order to drive improvements in standards and performance.
As part of the programme a LIFE Learning Lounge equipped with tablets, plasma screens and laptops has been created in the school where pupils, teachers, teaching assistants and others can improve their IT literacy.
By enabling learners to develop 21st century digital skills, the scheme aims to reduce the affect of poverty on pupil attainment, improve the literacy and numeracy of pupils and enhance the learning experience of children with additional learning needs.
Leighton Andrews said:
"LIFE draws together themes which are relevant to educators across Wales: engaging with families; transforming the lives of children with additional needs; developing skills which industry in Wales needs, so that we can be a dynamic and prosperous nation in the twenty first century.
"The programme’s focus is very much in line with my own priorities for education in Wales: supporting and improving literacy and numeracy, and reducing the effects of poverty on learner attainment.
"We must all work to break down barriers to learning and ensure that we unlock the potential of the internet to help us reach out to learners – and practitioners - who require support and encouragement.
"The Welsh Government is investing £39 million to ensure that every school in Wales has the essential connectivity and infrastructure they need. We have also launched Hwb, a world-class digital learning platform allowing teachers and learners to access online resources anywhere and at anytime. This includes our own iTunes U channel for Wales."