Celebrating ICT Success at St Mary’s PS, Portaferry!
We are incredibly proud to announce that our school has been awarded the Digital Schools Award and recognised as a mentor school for others – a fantastic achievement for our whole school community!
Throughout the 2025–2026 school year, our staff and pupils have shown outstanding dedication to developing their ICT skills, building confidence, and embracing digital learning in meaningful and exciting ways. Our pupils played a huge role in achieving this award. They have:
- Used a wide range of digital tools such as coding platforms, Microsoft 365, and creative apps to create, collaborate and problem-solve
- Taken on leadership roles as Digital Leaders, supporting staff and pupils, gathering feedback, and promoting online safety
- Led learning experiences through programmes like Dream Space and shared their knowledge with others
- Used technology such as assistive tools, immersive readers and communication apps to ensure everyone can access learning
- Spoken confidently about their learning and the impact of technology during our validation meeting
A special highlight was our Validation meeting in June, where Miss McCarthy and Mr Gilchrist were joined by our brilliant Digital Leaders and Digital Champions. They spoke with such confidence and pride – a true reflection of the impact of digital learning across our school.
As noted in the report:
"St Mary's Primary School has established a highly effective and inclusive digital learning environment where technology is used purposefully to enhance teaching, learning and leadership ... It is evident that digital technology is not simply present within St Mary's Primary School; it is embedded within the ethos, culture and everyday experiences of the school community. The school should be commended for the significant progress made and for the positive impact that digital technologies are having on teaching, learning and inclusion for all pupils"
This recognition is a celebration of everyone in the school who has contributed to our digital journey. We couldn’t be prouder!
St Marys Primary School and Nursery Unit, 53 Windmill Hill, Portaferry, Newtownards, BT22 1RH Phone: 028 4272 8278
