What do you get when you put a group of headteachers on a coach for several hours with promises of a trip to Apple HQ? A mix of giddy tech enthusiasm, curious professionals, and perhaps, just a little bit of travel-weary hysteria!
After a long trip, Battersea did not disappoint. We were warmly welcomed and led seamlessly through demonstrations that exemplified the power of technology to support learning. There were many ‘penny drop’ moments but Apple’s accessibility features were particularly impressive and provided simple but incredibly powerful ways to break down barriers for students with SEND.
The development of Apple classroom provides a really simple way of managing devices in the classroom, providing a really clear teacher overview, much needed with a group of school leaders with a variable grasp of Garageband!
But, the day wasn’t just about IT, accessibility and functionality. It was also about the pursuit of excellence, the sparking of curiosity, the encouragement to innovate and the building of culture. All things we strive for across the Trust everyday. The long journey back certainly provided time to reflect. Yes, it had been a tiring day. Yes, the coach seats weren’t exactly ergonomic – but it had been more than worth it.