At Ballymena Primary School we have a rich heritage in the use of ICT. Our most recent inspection report stated that "The children are very skilled in using a wide range of information and communication technology (ICT) devices and software to extend and express their learning across the curriculum; this high level work includes animation, interactive design, and various forms of broadcasting, including television, radio and podcasts."

ICT Experiences and Learning

The school has been developing areas of ICT to reflect the ever-changing developments in technology and the need to up-skill children to be well-equipped for the world they will meet after school.

All of our children enjoy a wide range of ICT experiences throughout the school including the use of programmable devices, communication tools, databases, spreadsheets, Scratch and coding technologies. Each classroom is equipped with iPads, which are used across the curriculum to enhance teaching and learning. In addition, all KS2 pupils have access to an individual laptop for use in class. We have a fully equipped ICT suite with 30 computers and 2 specialist sound booths for audio recording and podcasting.

Cross-Curricular Skills for the Future

As we seek to prepare the children for careers in the 21st century, ICT is a core component of learning across the curriculum. Children regularly use the internet for research, create podcasts, animations and code a range of devices developing problem solving skills and promoting innovation and collaboration.

E-Safety

E-safety education is vital to ensure that our children have the skills to know how to keep themselves safe online, recognise the dangers or risks when they arise and have the confidence to seek help when they need to. As part of our curriculum at Ballymena Primary School, e-safety education and lessons occur regularly and there is a robust and wide-ranging programme in place. We continue to work collaboratively with parents, other professionals and educational experts to ensure that our pupils are equipped to stay safe in our ever-increasing digital world.