Here at Computeam, we continually strive to ensure our clients benefit from the latest advancements in educational technology. But how do we actually acheive that goal and what approach do we adopt so that schools can benefit from the most up-to-date digital tools?
Innovation is driven by an internal Solutions Board that reviews market trends, gathers data from client feedback, vendor training, and industry events, and then evaluates these innovations and their suitability for schools.
Computeam makes sure that only the most relevant and impactful technologies are introduced into education environments, focusing only on those that improve both teaching and learning experiences across our client base.
Sharing key technology insights with our team
Keeping our team updated is essential to delivering cutting-edge services to our clients. We make use of an exceptional internal knowledge base and regular updates via Microsoft Teams to ensure everyone is informed about the latest technology. These updates draw from several sources:
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Client strategic reviews across our 500-school client base
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Trade show insights and vendor training sessions
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Best practices shared among Computeam’s existing schools
These channels allow everyone in the organisation to access up-to-date information, enabling us to deliver the very best solutions to schools.
How we pilot and implement new technology
Seamless technology transitions
Before fully adopting new technologies, we run pilot projects either in-house or in a volunteer school. These pilots test the technology’s feasibility, determining whether it meets the educational and technical needs before a wider rollout.
After a successful pilot, we prepare comprehensive IT training materials for both our team and clients, ensuring the transition to the new technology is seamless. We also develop a market plan to address any further support or resources that may be required for the best possible technology outcome for our clients.
Collaboration with key vendors and industry experts
Staying up to date with technology innovation
We work closely with key partners including Microsoft, Google, HPE/Aruba, Cisco Meraki, and Barracuda, staying up-to-date on the latest tools and innovations they offer. Our consultants regularly attend industry events such as the BETT Show in London, one of the world’s leading education technology expos. These collaborations help us keep our offerings current and ensure that schools always have access to solutions that enhance both administrative and classroom functions.
Continuous support through seminars and training
Helping schools naviagte technology changes
Computeam offers a wide range of support to help schools navigate technological changes. During the 2018 GDPR implementation, the new framework for data protection laws, we held seminars to help schools with compliance. Similarly, during the 2020 lockdowns, we offered training on how to manage remote learning through platforms like Google G-Suite for Education and Microsoft 365. To extend this support, we’ve developed Learning Locker, an online training platform, which provides schools with 24/7 access to key training materials, ensuring they can learn and adapt to new tools at their own pace.
Strategic planning with schools and trusts
Meaningful and impactful technology solutions
Our Strategic Planning service ensures that schools receive the best possible return on their technology investment. This involves at least three Strategic Review meetings per year, where we work closely with the Trust’s IT Strategy Board. During these meetings, we align the school’s improvement goals with relevant technological solutions. This process focuses on evidence-based planning, where we audit current weaknesses and aspirations, ensuring that technology adoption is meaningful and impactful, rather than using it for its own sake.
Attending BETT for exposure to cutting-edge EdTech
Discovery and insights
We understand the value of exposure to the latest developments in educational technology, which is why we offer Trust delegates the opportunity to attend the BETT show in London each year. BETT is a leading EdTech exhibition that showcases the most innovative solutions available in the education sector. By attending, school leaders can see what’s available, learn from other Multi-Academy Trusts (MATs), and hear from industry experts. Computeam covers the costs for accommodation and meals, ensuring that school leaders can focus on exploring the best possible solutions for their institution.
Aligning technology with educational goals
Improving learning outcomes through technology
Technology is only valuable when it directly supports educational goals. Our approach begins with defining the scope of the Trust’s improvement plan, using evidence-based audits to identify key areas for enhancement. This ensures that any technological solution we suggest is aligned with the school’s specific needs. By focusing on both weaknesses and aspirations, we help schools adopt technology that has a real impact on teaching and learning outcomes.
Adapting and managing new technology
Training and ongoing reviews
Once a solution is identified, we guide schools through the adoption process. This includes structured training sessions and ongoing reviews to ensure the technology aligns with the goals set out in the initial planning phase. We manage the rollout carefully, starting with pilot implementations before expanding to the entire school. This approach allows us to track progress and ensure that the new technology delivers measurable improvements in teaching and learning.
How can we help?
Through these innovative methods and our dedication to client success, Computeam helps schools stay ahead of the curve when it comes to technology, making sure their IT estate is future-proofed and aligned with their educational mission. If you’d like to find out more about any of the services mention above, please do get in touch by clicking the button below.