We’re delighted to be recognised as an Apple Distinguished School for 2024–2027 for inspiring, imagining, and impacting teaching and learning schoolwide through continuous innovation.
Our Story
The Apple Distinguished Schools programme allows us to realise our vision where all students have equal access to the highest quality learning & teaching, whoever they are and wherever they find themselves. 1:1 technology is fully embedded in our school culture and community and has been for the past 12 years. Students and staff benefit from the innovation, collaboration, communication, and creativity that being members of this elite community brings.
Inspire
We prioritise the development of digital skills to ensure high quality learning and teaching for all. We employ a Digital Development Officer to drive CLPL and ensure staff are abreast of new innovations in technology as well as offering coaching for improvement through enquiry. We partner with universities on projects such as Teaching for Digital Citizenship and we are asked to present locally and globally. Leaders use Microsoft 365 for collaboration, and all communication is digital. Staff encourage students to become innovators. Students participate in global competitions like SNORE and Rasbora Pi, using technology to create, innovate, and publish findings.
Imagine
Technology is central to empowering students and strengthening their voice. Student digital leaders run monthly sessions to share best practice and train peers and staff, while the student School Parliament reviews digital learning every half term. 1:1 technology has unlocked creativity in our students. They create and share their learning in different ways eg podcasting, stop motion animation, creating audio and video content. They learn and collaborate out with the school walls using iPads in a range of ways to support wellbeing, including communicating and recording work with partners on community projects such as the John Muir Award.
Impact
We have a culture of continuous improvement. Our recent digital thematic review highlighted that digital practice is embedded across the school and we strive to grow further. Tynecastle’s reputation as a digital leader attracts local and international visitors and we showcase digital excellence at community events, with staff and students sharing practice. We ensure 1:1 device equity and train students through the S1 Digital Skills Course so all are confident in using accessibility features. We support families with costs as well as providing charging lockers. We celebrate diversity with events like Culture Day, using technology to publish these with our community.
Being an Apple Distinguished School has been a vital part of our identity for the past 8 years and we are extremely proud of this status. The Apple Distinguished School community inspires us as we can share our learning, be inspired by others, and encourage our students to become future digital leaders.
