Sedgefield Community College Launches iPad Rollout

Last week, Sedgefield Community College took an exciting step forward in its digital journey, with every pupil in Years 7–10 receiving their own iPad as part of Laidlaw Schools Trust’s PedTech initiative. The programme is designed to enhance learning through innovative use of technology, preparing pupils with the skills they need to succeed now and in the future.

The rollout has taken place across the week, with one year group each day; Year 10 on Monday, Year 9 on Tuesday, Year 8 on Wednesday and Year 7 on Friday. Each session began with an introduction to the PedTech programme, before pupils unboxed their devices, added protective cases and set them up with guidance from staff. By the end of the sessions, students were already using their iPads in lessons, building familiarity and ownership from day one.

“An iPad allows every student to personalise their learning. It means that learning isn’t just possible, it’s meaningful.”

- Paul Tullock, Executive Lead of PedTech and Innovation at LST.

The PedTech strategy is focused on making technology part of everyday teaching and learning rather than an add-on. By personalising their devices, pupils can revisit key concepts, learn at their own pace and extend their studies beyond the classroom. The technology also supports teachers, offering real-time feedback, instant lesson sharing and a reduction in printed resources, helping to improve efficiency and sustainability.

Sedgefield’s rollout forms part of the Trust-wide commitment to technology in education, supported by the establishment of an Apple Regional Training Centre. The Centre provides high-quality professional development for staff across LST and the wider education community, ensuring pupils continue to benefit from innovative and effective use of digital tools.