Castleside Primary School named finalist in national education awards for innovative use of technology

Castleside Primary School is celebrating after being named a finalist in the Best Use of Technology / ICT in School category at the Education Today Awards 2026, recognising the school's innovative approach to digital learning and its commitment to improving outcomes for pupils.

The national recognition follows the successful introduction of one-to-one iPads for all Key Stage 2 pupils, an initiative supported by Connect Multi Academy Trust that has helped transform classroom learning, encourage independence and contribute to some of the school's strongest outcomes in recent years.

By combining high-quality teaching with innovative digital resources, Castleside has created a learning environment where technology is used to enhance traditional teaching methods and provide more personalised support for every child.

Pupils now have access to a wide range of digital learning platforms, allowing them to revisit previous lessons, practise key skills and receive immediate feedback on their progress. Teachers can also use the technology to identify areas where individual pupils may need additional support, ensuring learning can be adapted to meet their needs.

The impact of this approach has been reflected in the school's academic achievements.

This year, pupils achieved exceptional results in the Multiplication Tables Check, with an average score of 24.5 out of 25 and an impressive 73% of pupils achieving full marks, placing the school significantly above national figures.

The school also celebrated strong outcomes across other areas of learning, with 85% of pupils meeting the expected standard in phonics and an outstanding 100% of children achieving a Good Level of Development in the Early Years Foundation Stage.

While these achievements reflect the dedication of pupils and staff across the school, the introduction of digital learning has played an important role in helping Key Stage 2 pupils build confidence, strengthen their understanding and take greater ownership of their education.

A key priority for Castleside has been ensuring that every pupil can benefit from the opportunities technology provides, regardless of their background or individual learning needs.

Through its Pupil Premium Strategy, the school has focused on removing barriers to learning and providing targeted academic support. The introduction of individual iPads has helped ensure that all Key Stage 2 pupils have equal access to high-quality digital resources, supporting inclusion and helping children develop essential skills for the future.

The initiative has also demonstrated the benefits of collaboration across Connect Multi Academy Trust. Following the successful rollout at Castleside, the Trust has extended the one-to-one iPad programme to Catchgate Primary School, which shares the same Executive Headteacher, allowing more pupils to benefit from the approach.

Being shortlisted for the Education Today Awards 2026 is a significant achievement for Castleside Primary School and reflects the dedication of its staff to continually improving educational opportunities for children.

The recognition highlights how a small village primary school can embrace innovation and achieve exceptional results, demonstrating that access to technology, combined with excellent teaching, can make a meaningful difference to pupils' learning.

As Castleside looks to the future, the school remains committed to building on the success of its digital learning programme, ensuring that pupils continue to develop the confidence, independence and ambition they need to thrive.

The school is proud to be recognised on a national stage, celebrating not only its investment in technology but, most importantly, the opportunities and achievements of the children at the heart of its community.