A 'revolution in classrooms'

By nhitchens

Nick Hitchens

A NEW online teaching resource is being introduced to every school in East Sussex.

Learning Platform is a £1m project already being used in a number of primary and secondary schools in the county.

The system will provide a database that can be accessed by all members of the school, including pupils, teachers, governors and parents.

Jointly introduced by East Sussex County Council and the project contractors UniServity Ltd, the system will be introduced in every school by spring next year.

Pupils will be given their own e-portfolio and learning area to help them learn at their own pace, while teachers will be able to share teaching materials online and plan their lessons so colleagues can access them.

Cllr David Elkin, lead member for learning and school effectiveness said: "There is a revolution going on in our classrooms. The days of pupils sitting at desks looking at a blackboard are long gone.

"This really is 21st century learning using modern technology to ensure that East Sussex pupils have every chance to grow, develop, learn and fulfil their potential.

"This opens up a huge range of learning opportunities for our young people, and our schools."

Pupils will also be able to communicate with other schools on collaborative projects either locally, nationally or internationally by email and take part in live study discussions and forums.

The funding of the scheme is covered by a Harnessing Technology Grant, meaning there is no cost to schools for the first two years, while the following two years will be subsidised.

UniServity CEO Alan Wood said: "We are delighted East Sussex County Council has chosen UniServity cLc. Pupils will be able to enjoy an enriched learning experience."