A WEE COUNTY school is one of only 38 in Scotland to have been officially recognised for excellence in digital teaching and learning.

Banchory Primary was awarded national ‘Digital School’ status after demonstrating best practice in the classroom and across the curriculum.

The Tullibody school, along with 34 other primaries and three secondaries, was celebrated at a ceremony in Tulliallan Primary School.

The latest successful schools join the 43 primary schools awarded Digital School accreditation in 2017.

Launched in September 2016, the Digital Schools Award programme was developed to support, encourage and recognise schools in their efforts to integrate digital technology across the board.

According to Banchory headteacher Allison Littlejohns, the programme offered a real opportunity for the school to build on its digital capabilities.

She said: “As a result of this, both deputy head David Kerr and Pam Currie, from Tablet Academy, have been fantastic at successfully developing a digital strategy for Banchory, placing our learners at the very centre of it all.

“Children from P2 upwards have been developing their digital skills and presenting their work in various exciting and engaging formats such as One Note, SWAY and Microsoft Forms.

“David and Pam are now progressing with learners and staff to develop our very own Youtube learning channel, which we hope will help raise attainment with both children and parents being motivated to learn at both school and home.”

The programme, which is free to all schools, offers a roadmap and resources to those seeking to do more with technology in their classrooms.

It recognises schools demonstrating best practice and supports the efforts of those trying to maximise their digital potential.

Industry partners HP, Hewlett Packard Enterprise and Intel operate and co-ordinate the programme, as well as providing a financial commitment of £600,000 and practical support and resources.

It is run in partnership with Education Scotland and Skills Development Scotland and is supported by the Department of Education and Lifelong Learning.

The event, held in Kincardine, to mark the success of the schools was attended by MSP Shirley-Anne Somerville, minister for further education, higher education and science, along with pupils, teachers and programme partners.

Ms Somerville said: “It is encouraging to see so many schools embracing digital and supporting teacher professional learning to enrich their pupils’ education.

“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.

“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.”