Gogglebox star sees the importance of digital learning for young children

Former teacher and Gogglebox star Baasit Siddiqui has seen the importance digital learning plays in children’s education following a visit to the forward-thinking community of Parkdale Primary School: recognised by Apple for its commitment to “continuous innovation using technology”

Professional educator, Mr Siddiqui, whose passion is to educate, motivate and build children’s aspirations, visited the community-focused school to see first-hand the innovative technology championed by the Parkdale community which has led to its status as an ‘Apple Distinguished School’.

The school, part of the Transform Trust family, has been recognised by Apple as “one of the most innovative schools in the world” for its commitment to continuous innovation in education through its digital practice and whole-school integration of products, such as iPads, to create exemplary learning for its pupils at school and at home.

Apple Distinguished Schools are recognised as centres of leadership and educational excellence, with a clear vision for how technology-rich environments support learning goals. As an Apple Distinguished School, Parkdale invited educators across the country to visit and experience the benefits of digital learning and how technology allows pupils to let their creativity flow using platforms, such as Chatterpix and Sketchers School, designed to educate and inspire. 

This ties in with Transform Trust’s vision to raise aspirations and provide equitable life chances for every child, while its values (Respect, Kindness, Equity and Creativity)- underpin every aspect of school life, inside and outside of the classroom.

Visitors heard informative talks from Jenny Hinton, Parkdale’s digital lead, and Abdul Chohan, vice president of Showbie, an innovative app helping teachers create and manage assignments, give feedback, and communicate with pupils in one place.

Mr Chohan said: “Transform Trust has been working with the Showbie team to embed research-based practices with assessment and feedback as a day-to-day practice. This is enabling the trust to ensure that every child has equitable access to learning.