BETT for primary schools

Next week sees the annual BETT show, when teachers with an interest in technology flock to London to see the latest developments in computing and software for schools. This will be the last time that it is held at Olympia. Next year it moves to ExCeL London on the Jubilee line.

There are so many things to see that visitors run the risk of exhaustion. Bear in mind that food is expensive at Olympia and queues are very long between 12 and 2 so take a packed lunch or avoid the peak times. Planning is essential so make sure you pick out key exhibitors before you leave home.

Here are my top ten BETT primary resources this year:

1) Storyphones (stand V35) are an MP3 digital audio system in a robust and colourful headset. They come with a selection of story books but also can be used for music and movement lessons, for teaching French and improving children’s speaking and listening  skills. Once you have them in your classroom, you will wonder how you managed without them.

2) Want maths resources? Have a look at Mangahigh.com (stand H56) an online games-based maths teaching resource for KS2- 4. The great news is that it is  completely free toUK schools, so is ideal for those with restricted budgets.

3) Editure (stand G121) has a learning platform which is designed specifically for primary schools which can be used by children in reception as well as older pupils. I am a little perplexed by their claim, “We have recently introduced an exciting alien theme suitable for younger learners,” but it is definitely worth a look !

4) On stand P47 is Oddizzi from Little Travel Bug.  It has been shortlisted in the Primary Digital Category at this year’s BETT Awards. Use the Oddizzi homepage first thing in the morning and let the class look at the live news feed on the interactive map. Get them to send virtual postcards to communicate with other classrooms, nationally and internationally

5) I know lots of you use 2simple software. This year they have been shortlisted for a BETT award. They are focusing on language activities on stand F59.  Have a look at 2Start English, a new program for EAL pupils based on school scenarios.  They also have 2Simple French and Spanish for Purple Mash with interactive games and activities.

6) In line with the new Ofsted framework, the Classroom Monitor Primary workbook from Prime Principle has developed free web resources for teaching and lesson planning. See them on on stand J9.

7) ePace  is an online learner profiling tool created by Mary Blake a former teacher in Cheshire specialising in behavioural issues. ePace (Stand V15) has been shortlisted in the ICT tolls for teaching and learning category at the BETT awards. It is a profiling tool that lets teachers find out how pupils learn and their strengths and weaknesses. 

8 ) Use your interactive whiteboard to teach music with ABC Creative Music Online (stand IN-2). It has interactive lessons, online assessment, training videos and downloadable curriculum information.

9) Talking Brix™ from Ablenet  (stand SN83) are used with children who have limited speech or have communication  problems but they are also ideal for early years pupils. Each Brix will store 10 seconds of recorded speech and several can be linked together for sequenced activities  

10) Imagine looking at mini beasts close up and recording your observations – just like a forensic pathologist! The See N Speak recordable magnifier is a new product for TTS on stand P22. The magnifier also lets children record audio messages up to 30 seconds long.

Seminars

Click on this link https://www.bettshow.com/bett/website/showseminar1_new1.aspx to see a full list of seminars and book your place before you go as these fill up fast.  Highlights this year for primary include:

– Primary school music teacher wanted – no experience necessary: ICT to support non-music specialists in teaching music -Dr Benjaman Schögler, Creative Director, Skoog Music – Wednesday 11 January, 15.00, SEN Theatre, LearnLive track: SEN

– Improving the standards of both literacy and curriculum engagement at age 11 by teaching ‘e-literacy’

– Kate Ruttle, Deputy Head,GreatHeathPrimary School- Wednesday 11 January 17.00, Apex Room, LearnLive track: Learning & Teaching

– Enhancing learning and teaching with online video – Theo Kuechel, Naace Fellow – Friday 13 January, 17.00, Apex Room, LearnLive track: Learning & Teaching

– Embedding ICT across the curriculum in primary schools – Dave Smith, ICT Advisor, London Borough of Havering & MilesBerry, Subject Leader, ICT Education,RoehamptonUniversity- Saturday 14 January, 14.30, Apex Room, LearnLive track: Learning & Teaching

I am also running a seminar with my co-writer Angie McGlashon: Brilliant ideas to use ICT in the inclusive classroom will run at 1.30 on Wednesday 11th January SEN Theatre, in the West Hall. This is full of practical advice and case studies from schools which are making great use of technology to help   learners who need extra support.