The Queen’s School has been shortlisted for the national i25 Award.
The i25 celebrates those individuals who are making a remarkable contribution to independent schools and education for outstanding examples of innovation or influence.
The school nominated Director of IT Paul Foster, who has devised and overseen a long-term strategy to deliver IT excellence at Queen’s, creating and embedding a Tradition of Technological Innovation.
Headmistress of The Queen’s School Sue Wallace-Woodroffe said: “Paul’s strategic aim to give pupils first use of the technology that matters now and in the future has been founded on a vision to bring technology close to pupils and teachers, extend learning outside the classroom and give pupils a global perspective.
“His projects have had a direct impact on access to learning, improved pastoral care, academic guidance and internet communications and I am extremely proud that his hard work and dedication is being recognised. Harnessing and utilising the best of internet communications has meant pupils receive a truly global perspective to their education.”
This academic year has seen the launch of the school’s Virtual Boardroom, providing video conferencing facilities and the opportunity to go beyond geographical limitations. Pupils, individually and as a class, have been able to connect with mentors, alumni, notable individuals and organisations from around the world.
The Queen’s School became the first independent day school in UK to have a Virtual Learning Environment in 2007. Other projects include leading the way with 1:1 computing in 2014 when every girl at the Senior School began to use an iPad for class and homework; and the introduction of QS Connect in 2009 to give remote access to IT services wherever and whenever pupils and staff may be working.
Paul will be heading to London to hear the results on 19th March.