Day 1 at the BETT Show:
Day one at the BETT Show was a whirlwind of innovation, insightful discussions, and crucial networking, all focused on modernising the education sector through technology. It kicked off with the Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, announcing plans for a digital revolution in schools, emphasising that technology is key to transforming teaching, removing barriers, and ensuring that every student and teacher has the tools for success.
The day's announcements underscore a commitment to a brighter future for children via modernisation and teacher support through technology.
Key Announcements and Takeaways
1. Technology's Impact on Learning
- Research demonstrates that effective technology use can accelerate learning by two to three months.
- Over two-thirds of school leaders report improved pupil attainment through educational technology.
2. AI to Reduce Teacher Workload
- The Education Secretary emphasised AI as a means to reduce teacher workload, addressing recruitment and retention challenges by freeing teachers from administrative tasks so that they can focus on teaching.
3. AI Safety Framework
- Global tech firms such as Google, Microsoft, Adobe, and Amazon Web Services have committed to ensuring AI tools for education are safe by design.
- The "AI Product Safety Expectations in Education" framework includes:
- Child-centred design principles.
- Enhanced filtering of harmful content.
- Training and guidance for teachers on the safe use of AI tools, available in Spring 2025.
4. Assistive Technology for SEND
- All new teachers will be trained on the effective use of assistive technology for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
- Readily available, low-cost tech such as dictation and text-to-speech software are key to high-quality teaching for SEND pupils, despite only 13% of teachers having received training on accessibility features between 2021 and 2023.
5. Positive Outcomes of Assistive Tech
- A pilot programme showed significant improvements in students' independence, confidence, engagement, and attainment through assistive technology.
- Such technology allows students to access qualifications they might have previously been unable to achieve.
6. "Plan Technology for Your School" Service
- A new service, "Plan Technology for Your School", will help schools prioritise tech investments based on their needs.
- This aims to streamline tech purchasing and establish digital foundations for effective teaching.
7. EdTech Evidence Board
- The Chartered College of Teaching will pilot an EdTech Evidence Board to build evidence of AI products that work well.
- Schools will receive evidence-based recommendations, ensuring investments in technology deliver real educational benefits.
8. DfE Connect
- The Department for Education (DfE) is developing DfE Connect, a digital service to consolidate support services and information.
- It currently aids school leaders and administrators with finance tasks and funding information.
Who to See and Where to Go
For those exploring the BETT Show, here are some key stands and exhibitors to visit:
- Google (Stand SJ20): Discover the latest in AI with Gemini and Notebook LM, designed to revolutionise leading, learning and teaching.
- NetSupport (Stand SH50): Learn about classroom management and IT infrastructure solutions for schools.
- Team SOS - Laurence Royston (Stand SM21): Understand how Martyn’s law might effect Uk Schools
- Acer (Stand NJ61): Get hands-on with the latest hardware and technology solutions for education.
- Cornerstones (Stand SM21): Engage with experts on curriculum development and educational resources.
- Angel Solutions: Andy Kent: Learn about data-driven insights and school improvement solutions designed to enhance education outcomes.
- Happy Confident Company (Stand SM21): Discover programs focused on student well-being and confidence building.
- Secure Schools (Stand SL54): Gain knowledge on online safety and cybersecurity for educational institutions.
- BBC Teach - Claire Williams (Stand SS71): Explore digital learning resources and educational content for schools.
- Welbee - Mark Solomons (Stand SM21): Discuss teacher well-being and strategies to support staff in education.
- CPOMS (Stand SK70): Learn about safeguarding and pastoral management solutions for schools.
- The National College (Stand SK22): Explore professional development and training opportunities for educators.
A Promising Future for EdTech
Day 1 of the BETT Show has set the stage for a technologically advanced future for education, with significant announcements and many opportunities for collaboration. The focus is on ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, can access the tools and support they need to succeed in a digital world, with an emphasis on safer AI, assistive technology, and informed technology investment strategies.
The many meetings held on Day 1 of BETT suggest a real interest from educators and technology providers to collaborate and implement innovative solutions in the classroom.