We would like to thank all the local authority representatives, headteachers, tutors and children who have supported the making of our ‘Change Happens’ video. The wonderful co-operation we received in terms of interviews, filming and photography made it possible. We are also extremely grateful to other supporters who assisted with its development.
Welcome to our DigiSmart world. It is a place where we aim to make change happen.
DigiSmart is an early intervention strategy helping under-achieving children to succeed in education before they leave primary school. It is developed and managed by LIFT for Learning.
The DigiSmart programme of work is a structured, progressional teaching and learning package with all session materials provided. The activities build on early success and use technology as a motivational hook.
DigiSmart operates in partnership with primary schools and is delivered on school premises. It takes place out of school hours (most commonly after school) over an academic year. Teaching staff act as tutors and receive training to deliver the weekly sessions.
Children’s progress, specifically in relation to ICT and reading, is assessed and measured from start to finish.
Change happens – and is seen to happen – quickly. The children become motivated by the programme activities and by their success. They become more confident and willing to engage, not only in DigiSmart but back in class too.
Put simply, they start to realise that they 'can do it'. The group dynamic plays a part, fostering a sense of shared identity and team spirit.
Children transfer learning and confidence gains back into the classroom, act as mentors and leaders, and present their work to audiences with parents and family members attending.
Our goals are to boost children’s attainment, self-esteem and overall engagement with education. These goals are based on what we know it is possible for the target group of children to achieve.
