October 10, 2024 12:15pm
The Portsmouth Academy is celebrating a remarkable achievement as it has been awarded Microsoft Showcase School status for a third consecutive year, making it the only school in Portsmouth to hold this prestigious title.
The school continues to be a member of a global community of pioneers in educational transformation, using technology to enhance teaching and learning.
In addition to issuing every student within Year 7, 8, 9 and 10 with their own laptop to support with learning, virtual reality headsets have also been a welcomed addition within the classroom.
Hajar Bellazrak, the lead for Digital Learning at The Portsmouth Academy, shared her excitement about the milestone:
“We are immensely proud of how far the school has come. This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our staff and students, who have embraced digital learning as an integral part of their educational journey.
“The benefits of being a Microsoft Showcase School extend beyond just technology. Our staff, all of whom are certified Microsoft Educators, are part of a global network where we can share best practices, collaborate with other schools, and continue to drive digital transformation. This means that both our teachers and students are constantly evolving their skills, keeping up with the ever-changing digital landscape.
“We are preparing our students with future-ready skills, equipping them to excel in a rapidly changing job market.”
The Microsoft Showcase School programme is designed to engage schools in innovative approaches to education, focusing on immersive, inclusive and student-centred experiences.
As part of this global community, The Portsmouth Academy has consistently integrated advanced technology, such as virtual reality headsets and a new high-tech computing room, to provide students with hands-on learning opportunities across subjects ranging from computing to drama.
Becoming a Microsoft Showcase School demonstrates The Portsmouth Academy’s forward-thinking approach to ensure that its digital curriculum adapts to new developments, such as artificial intelligence, which will play an increasing role in the future workforce.
This accolade underscores The Portsmouth Academy’s commitment to innovation and its role as a leader in digital education, both within the city and on a national level.
Michelle Smith, Executive Principal at The Portsmouth Academy, welcomed this recognition and praised staff for their hard work, saying:
“I am absolutely thrilled that The Portsmouth Academy has been awarded Microsoft Showcase School status for the third year in a row. This accolade reflects the incredible work and dedication of both our staff and students in embracing digital transformation.
“At The Portsmouth Academy, we believe that technology plays a vital role in preparing our students for the future, and we are proud to be at the forefront of this innovation. Our commitment to providing immersive, future-focused learning experiences ensures that our students are not only engaged but equipped with the skills they need to succeed in an ever-evolving world. I am excited to see how we continue to grow and lead the way in digital education.”
