A Growth Engine for the UK

IPACA is a community academy for students on the Isle of Portland, in Dorset. It takes a “stage not age” approach to education and aims to provide an outstanding learning experience to young people aged three to 19. IPACA wanted to make students feel valued and respected, and to give them more responsibility in the classroom. By introducing Google Chromebooks and Google Apps for Education, the academy has made learning a more collaborative experience – students can now share things easily and access their work in the way that best suits them. Collaborating on joint projects has also been made more effective, and students are being encouraged to use technology to continue learning outside of school hours. “We believe technology can engage, innovate and inspire our pupils, and the Chromebook platform has allowed us to do that,” says Gary Spracklen, Director of Digital Learning and Innovation. Since introducing Chromebooks, the academy has seen a 15% rise in students achieving five A* to C grades, including in English and Maths. IPACA is now exploring how tablets can be used alongside Chromebooks to further enhance the learning experience. “We’ve seen a great difference from students being able to engage with their teachers and peers; they feel happier and more confident,” says Gary.