Woodfield Secondary SEN School
The partnership between Woodfield School and Vitalize IT has significantly improved the school's use of technology in several ways:
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Transition to Google for Education: Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Woodfield School had already planned to adopt Google for Education to provide flexible learning options for its students. When the pandemic hit, Vitalize IT helped the school accelerate its Google rollout within just two days, providing remote training to staff and enabling the school to continue teaching remotely.
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Improved IT Infrastructure: The partnership led to a complete overhaul of the school's outdated networking system. In collaboration with their partner Computer Cloud, Vitalize IT replaced the entire network with new Ubiquity equipment, including switches and Wi-Fi points in every classroom, and upgraded the internet speed to 500mbs. This robust infrastructure provides a solid foundation for effective technology use.
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Centralized IT Support: Vitalize IT acts as a single point of contact for all of Woodfield School's IT needs. This includes managing the Google site, on-school servers, and providing first and second-line IT support in partnership with Computer Cloud. This centralized approach streamlines IT operations and saves the school time and money.
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Collaborative Problem Solving: The partnership goes beyond simply providing IT services. Vitalize IT actively collaborates with Woodfield School to identify challenges and find innovative solutions. For example, when the school faced difficulties with walkie-talkies disrupting learning, Vitalize IT researched and proposed a pilot program for a new communication system. They also helped source and set up a school radio station, fulfilling a need identified by the school.
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Enhanced Teaching and Learning: The partnership has led to the integration of various technologies that enhance teaching and learning. This includes investing in Lego Spike for engaging programming lessons, upgrading virtual reality headsets, and providing Chromebooks for every classroom, ensuring accessibility and promoting digital literacy among students.
Overall, the partnership between Woodfield School and Vitalize IT has been instrumental in transforming the school's technological landscape. By providing comprehensive IT support, fostering collaboration, and implementing innovative solutions, the partnership has significantly improved the school's ability to utilize technology to enhance teaching, learning, and overall school operations.
Woodfield School are interviewed by the DFE
Thinking beyond the pandemic in a Special Educational Needs school