The selection of Douglas Park School [DPS] as an Apple Distinguished School “is a tremendous honour and a testament to how innovatively our staff and students use technology to empower and engage students in their learning”, according to DPS principal Gareth Sinton.
The school is one of 728 schools from 36 countries selected for the distinction by Apple “based on its commitment to continuous innovation in education and using Apple products to create exemplary learning practices”, the California-based multinational tech company said.
Earning the designation highlights the commitment of DPS to its students’ educational outcomes while also recognising the collaborative, creative, hands-on and technology-rich learning environment Apple has developed for students, Sinton said.
“We’re a very hands-on school as well, so you’re just as likely to see our kids doing things like draft writing in a book or using hot glue and cardboard as you are coding a robot.
“It’s kind of like the technology is invisible because it’s there – it’s a part of everything. But our kids aren’t on devices all day long or anything like that,” Sinton said.
“We are dedicated to leveraging technology to enhance teaching and learning, and this recognition validates our commitment to preparing our students for success in a rapidly changing world.”
The Apple Distinguished School programme is touted as helping “students to transform their learning through connecting them to the world, fuelling their creativity, and deepening collaboration with one another” via the use of such Apple products as iPads and laptops, and “supports school leaders through leadership events, opportunities to engage with experts, and collaboration with peers who share an interest in sustaining an innovative learning and teaching environment”.
