Digital Transitions
Supporting flexible learning and positive transitions
Background
Gypsy/Traveller pupils have the lowest rates of transition to positive destinations beyond primary school of all minority ethnic groups. While families value education, the majority refuse to engage with secondary schools. There is an urgent need for flexible education models that allow young people to learn while also sustaining their culture.
Digital learning is known to play a key role in providing inclusive education and social participation. Recently STEP undertook research to understand the infrastructure needed to enable digital learning to provide a viable model for secondary education for Gypsy/Traveller learners.
In response, STEP developed the Digital Transitions Programme, which comprises several elements: Digital Sacks with technology to support flexible learning, a virtual toolkit for ‘anytime, any place’ access to materials, and a professional learning programme to improve staff confidence and capacity to facilitate digital learning.
Programme components
- Digital Sacks containing technical kit address the digital poverty gap and improve transitions beyond primary school by increasing young people’s capacity to engage in self-led learning. The Sacks are tailored to the specific needs of nomadic young people to mitigate known barriers to education.
- Participating young people are linked with a practitioner who supports culturally sustaining education programmes.
- The virtual toolkit provides young people and staff with information to get started with the Digital Sack as well as resources to support digital learning.
- Digital Essentials sessions offer practitioners opportunities to improve knowledge and skills to support digital learning. Visit the events page for more details.
We invite expressions of interest for participation in the Digital Transitions programme. The initiative is open to TENET members and other education professionals working with young people in upper primary and secondary phases from the Gypsy/Traveller and Roma community who require digital technology to support flexible learning and positive transitions. We have a limited number of places so do get in touch as soon as possible to discuss taking part.
The virtual toolkit
Getting started with your Digital Sack
Here’s your quick guide to what’s in the STEP Digital Sack. Please get in touch directly for one-to-one support.
BBC Mirco:bit resource hub
What is a BBC Micro:bit? We’ve compiled resources and information to help you get started with your pocket-sized computer.
Digital Learning resources
Digitally learning opportunities are endless. Explore some of the most useful sources for learners from traditionally nomadic communities, including the STEP learning app, upskilling courses, creative tools and educational platforms.
Wider achievement and awards
There a many ways to get qualifications and awards. We’ve collated some of the most popular and successful opportunities as recommended by our teacher network.
Staying safe online
Useful organisations and important information to share with young people about using technology and online content in safe, critical and responsible ways.
for young people
Young people can also visit our Digital Zone for more programme information and resources.