Celebrating achievement
Within DigiSmart there are a number of specific ways in which children are affirmed and have opportunities to celebrate their success, in recognition of the sustained commitment and progress they are making.
We provide certificates and other motivational resources at key points in the project year. These are presented in order to affirm the achievements of the children and to boost their self-esteem. They are linked to the acquisition of skills taught and practised in the sessions, as well as acknowledging their work as mentors and buddies.
Towards the end of the Summer Term graduation events are held for the DigiSmart children. These events enable children to come together to celebrate and share in each other’s success in a grand finale.
The DigiSmart graduates are presented with special awards confirming that they are fully DigiSmart and licensed to help others. They are invited to stand up and speak about what they have learnt and how they feel.
As a result of graduating from DigiSmart and having their achievements validated by evidence and through the affirmation of others, these children enjoy a status they have never previously had. They become 'can do' because they know they ‘can do it’.
Over the years, the schools and local authorities we work with have found a number of ways to celebrate and profile children’s success:
Left: Richard Wilson helped graduates celebrate at the end of a DigiSmart year — “I thought I was DigiSmart but, after hearing you all talk about what you can do, I’m beginning to wonder!” Right: Prunella Scales attended a graduation ceremony — “I am completely in awe of what you have achieved at DigiSmart.”
Left: Trevor Phillips congratulated a group of DigiSmart graduates — “The skills that make you DigiSmart can change your lives. You should feel very proud of what you have achieved.” Right: Certificates presented in class at the end of the DigiSmart sessions.
Right: Awards presented by Chair of Governors at DigiSmart graduation event to which parents were invited. Group image: Local authority graduation event.