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The Digital Schoolhouse initiative is going nationwide this academic year, thanks to the support of PlayStation.
Originally launched at the beginning of the previous academic year, the venture delivered a London-based programme of activities designed to improve the level of computing taught in schools and encourage young people to consider a career in the games industry.
Last year, Digital Schoolhouse reached 9,000 pupils and 1,000 teachers from 127 schools. This year, it aims to reach 15,000 pupils and 1,600 teachers around England.
The partnership with PlayStation will see the platform holder helping to create fun and creative workshops that will be rolled out nationwide. Trade body UKIE, creator of Digital Schoolhouse, will continue to drive the programme.
“PlayStation is delighted to be partnering with UKIE to bring Digital Schoolhouse to more schools, and even more children, across the UK than ever before,” said Sony Interactive Entertainment UK’s MD and VP Warwick Light.
“A great teacher can have a lasting impact on a student and not only does Digital Schoolhouse provide teachers with practical guidance and creative resources, but it gives them the confidence to be able to excite students about Computing in new and engaging ways. Digital Schoolhouse helps to make learning fun and with that comes endless possibilities.”
UKIE CEO Dr Jo Twist added: “UKIE is proud to be rolling out the national Digital Schoolhouse programme across the country today thanks to PlayStation. The scale of the impact of the pilot year shows that the unique play-based learning model is working to inspire children from all backgrounds, at a young age, into creative computing as well as giving confidence and resources to their teachers.
“The national programme will future proof and equip the next generation with the fundamental skills necessary to drive the 21st Century creative, digital economy. Collaboration with the games, creative and technology industries has been instrumental to the success of DSH, so we are delighted to have PlayStation as lead partner for the programme.”
UKIE hosted a launch event for Digital Schoolhouse in London today.
