Engaging Students with Education: Fostering Inclusivity Through Innovative Technology

To enhance the educational journey of students aged between 10-16, the ENGAGE team is pioneering a project aimed at digitising the existing ‘pupil passport’. This initiative seeks to leverage technology, specifically the user-friendly Padlet platform, to make the process more accessible and engaging for young individuals. The overarching goal is to empower students to document and reflect on their unique journeys through multimedia representation, fostering self-reflection and facilitating a smoother transition back to school life.

The ENGAGE Programme

The ENGAGE programme operates from four hubs, including two in Northampton and one in Milton Keynes. Focused on boosting confidence and self-esteem, the programme employs practical-based activities under a high staff-to-student ratio. It serves as an alternative provision for students when traditional school-based education is deemed unsuitable, providing therapeutic and individualised care to address diverse educational and pastoral needs.

The Challenge of Alternative Provision

Students in alternative provision often face challenges such as school refusal, special educational needs, or having been excluded from mainstream education. The aim is to mitigate the long-lasting impacts of exclusion, including involvement in criminal activities, low educational attainment, and mental health issues. Research underscores the importance of alternative provision in building students’ self-worth and facilitating effective reintegration into mainstream education.

Digital Technology as a Solution

Recognising the evolving landscape of education, the project embraces Ipad technology to facilitate students’ reflections. Through participatory action research, the team plans to consult with students on the development of the Student e-Passport, seeking their input on the platform’s design and functionalities. The digital passport will be piloted with one hub group, and its effectiveness and scalability will be evaluated collaboratively with students, staff, and platform designers.

Measuring Success

The Northampton Saints Foundation student passport, used as an evaluation tool, has provided valuable insights over the past four academic years. Notably, within the 2019/20 academic year, the Foundation achieved an impressive 93% progression rate, indicating success in terms of transitioning students to employment, education, or training. The digital transformation of certain aspects of the programme has shown promise in increasing student engagement during sessions and overcoming the challenge of documenting emotions on paper.

Conclusion

The ongoing project marks a significant stride toward inclusivity and engagement in education. By embracing digital technology, the ENGAGE team aims to bridge the digital divide among young individuals, ensuring that every student’s unique journey is not only documented but also becomes a source of empowerment and reflection. The digital evolution promises to enhance the effectiveness and accessibility of educational programmes, making a positive impact on the lives of students facing diverse challenges in their educational paths.

Dr Emma Whewell is a Senior Lecturer in Sport & Physical Education at the University of Northampton. Emma is a member of the Primary Physical Education European Network group and the All Party Parliamentary Group for a fit and healthy childhood. She is an external examiner for Leeds Trinity University’s Accelerated Physical Education degree and an external consultant for other teacher training providers.