Teach Primary Issue 19.5

THE FACTS Less than 60 per cent of UK primary schools have full wifi coverage across the building — many classrooms still have poor connections. The Connect the Classroom programme provides government funding to help schools upgrade digital infrastructure ( tinyurl.com/ tp-GovtConnect ). Schools are encouraged to appoint a senior leader responsible for digital strategy to help coordinate training and technology use. Leasing devices in bulk can reduce costs and ensure all pupils have the same access, closing digital divides. Almost 40 per cent of families have low digital skills. For more info and guidance, visit the Department for Education’s Digital and Technology Standards page at tinyurl.com/ tp-DTstandards are just the start; what comes next is reaching out to dedicated IT experts in education, who can offer support with strategic planning, procurement, and leadership training. Without that external input, the standards risk becoming an aspiration rather than an achievable roadmap. Do I need new iPads? Many primary schools still rely on ‘Bring Your Own Device’ (BYOD) policies or limited shared tablets – but these can create real barriers for younger pupils, especially those who don’t have access to suitable devices at home. The updated standards shift the focus towards more sustainable models, like bulk-buying or leasing, ensuring every pupil has consistent access in the classroom. This removes a key barrier to participation and gives teachers the confidence to plan high-quality digital learning for all. For example, at Sunnyvale Primary, leasing tablets means every Year 3 pupil has their own device for class projects, removing barriers caused by device shortages and enabling more interactive learning. But it’s not just about devices. Digital skills matter too – for pupils, staff, and families. Nearly 40 per cent of families lack basic digital skills (via The Guardian , 2024), which can affect how well pupils benefit from technology at home. The standards encourage schools to provide digital skills workshops and resources for parents and caregivers – a critical support in primary education, where home learning and parental involvement are key. Practical steps You might be wondering what all this means for your daily teaching. While some changes will take time, and the involvement of multiple staff members, there are some independent steps you can take to move things along. For example, we’ve recently been recommending digital tools like Microsoft PowerPoint’s ‘Present Live’ feature, which shows subtitles in different languages on parents’ phones during meetings and can improve communication and inclusion, especially in diverse primary school communities. A digital lead could help bring these kinds of helpful tools into your school. Don’t worry about perfect Remember, the standards are a guide for schools to work towards, not a checklist to panic over. Primary schools are at different stages; many won’t meet every part of the standards immediately. What matters most is having a clear plan, making steady progress, and ensuring technology supports teaching and learning effectively in your classroom. That way, you can focus on inspiring and educating your pupils, while technology quietly supports you behind the scenes. TP Mel Parker is an educational technologist at RM Technology and former deputy headteacher. rm.com www.teachwire.net | 35 F EATURE S I C T