Last Friday, pupils at Avonwood Primary School enjoyed a visit from local MP Tobias Ellwood who saw first-hand how the school is using educational technology (EdTech) to support teaching and learning.
Mr Ellwood began his visit with a tour of the school where he saw pupils across all year groups immersing themselves in their lessons for the day. As part of this, Mr Ellwood learnt how the school is using EdTech to support and enhance pupils’ learning, both in the classroom and at home. Every child between Years 3 and 6 is provided with a Chromebook which they use across all subjects, including to create interactive presentations, take part in quizzes and research new topics in the curriculum.
Each member of staff is also provided with an iPad which they are able to connect to a projector in their classroom to use as an interactive “visualiser”. This means they can move around the classroom and display examples of pupils’ work for all to benefit from.
Later in the morning, Mr Ellwood conducted an assembly for pupils in Years 5 and 6 where he gave a presentation about what inspired him to become an MP and what his role involves. Pupils then took the opportunity to ask Mr Ellwood a range of thoughtful and engaged questions, including about how the economy works and how we can best support the NHS.
Chris Jackson, Headteacher of Avonwood Primary School, said:
“It was excellent to welcome Tobias Ellwood MP to our school today and showcase all the fantastic teaching and learning taking place here. It was particularly pleasing to see our pupils paying such close attention during Mr Ellwood’s assembly and asking him some really considered questions. I know many of them came away feeling very inspired by Mr Ellwood’s core message – if you want to make a positive difference in your school or wider communities you need to be willing to work hard.”
Speaking of his visit, Tobias Ellwood MP, said:
“It was a pleasure to visit and address the students and staff at Avonwood Primary School in their morning assembly. Thank you for all the challenging questions and inspiring engagement. This is a fantastic new school that Bournemouth can be proud of. I look forward to visiting again in the near future."