Top technology award for Lisburn teacher

The ICT Head of Department at St Patricks Academy, Mary Towe was granted the award by C2k (Classroom 2000) in association with Hewlett Packard.

She is one of just three teachers in Northern Ireland to earn the award – the third in a series of three which sees teachers across the province develop their educational computer technology skills from user, to leader to expert.

Ms Towe joined two teaching colleagues from Methodist College Belfast and Sperrin Integrated College, Magherafelt to take part in the year-long LearningNI Expert training scheme.

The scheme has been developed by C2k to support teachers’ professional development in integrating online technologies with traditional teaching and learning.

Jimmy Stewart, Director of C2k praised Ms Towe and the other teachers for their hard work and commitment to the scheme, saying: “The use of technology such as LearningNI in our schools is ever increasing.

“Engaging pupils with the use of 21st-century learning tools truly enhances their learning experience and the delivery of the curriculum, so it is essential that teachers in our schools in Northern Ireland develop their skills and expertise in this area to the highest possible level.

“Ms Towe’s involvement in the LearningNI Expert training scheme over the past year demonstrates her commitment to providing a first class, technology-led education for the pupils of St Patrick’s Academy and, together with her colleagues from other schools who also took part in the scheme, is to be commended for her hard work and dedication.”

Ms Towe was recently presented with her award by Mr Scott Naismith, Principal of Methodist College Belfast, where the scheme was delivered by Senior Teacher Alistair McCullough.

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