Introduction
The “Portsmouth: The Digital City” Project began life the year before the pandemic but came to life in response to the lockdowns and the need to support remote learning. Building on this, the project was redeveloped after the appointment of the Head of Digital Learning, Education and Innovation in September 2022 so that all 62 schools in the city (consisting of 17 LA maintained schools and 45 academies, covered by 14 different MATs) have a shared vision and three clear strands: technology for children, technology for adults, technology for all.
It has benefited from funding from the DfE Connect the Classroom (CTC) Project and the Priority Education Investment Area (PEIA) programme, alongside the partnerships the Head of Digital has formed with organisations such as STEM, Google, Classroom.Cloud, GEC, Crick Software, TTS, Arbor, Primary Goal, Quizizz and ESports, to name but a few.
Since then, the project has been recognised both within the UK and internationally for its innovative approach to transforming education and for developing skills at all levels through effective leadership.
A recent (July 2024) visit from the DfE enabled the city to showcase their journey and impact so far through round table discussions and visits to two different LA maintained schools. Following the success of this visit and the development and growth of the Digital City Project Team, Portsmouth are now in a position to support and mentor another Local Authority to develop their own Digital City Vision and Strategy.
Our vision is that we have a shared responsibility to ensure we are using technology to:
- Enhance teaching and learning
- Reduce workload
- Support accessibility and inclusion
- Narrow the digital divide
so that every member of our community can select the right tool, for the right outcome, for them, in that moment in time.
By working collaboratively on this, we can improve outcomes for all citizens in Portsmouth (children and adults).
More information about the project is coming soon. If you have any questions, please contact Gemma Gwillliam at [email protected].