Shireland Technology Primary, part of Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust, has been awarded Microsoft Showcase School status for 2025-26, joining a select global network of schools recognised for leading the way in digital education.
The recognition marks a huge milestone for the school and wider Trust, following four years of sustained investment in technology and innovation. The Technology Primary first began as an Incubator School for the programme before progressing towards Showcase status, a journey shaped by the creativity, collaboration and dedication of its staff.
Microsoft Showcase Schools are part of an international community committed to transforming learning through technology. The programme connects institutions across the globe, enabling them to share best practice, access expert support and collaborate with leaders driving change in education.
Lady Kirsty Grundy, Principal of Shireland Technology Primary and Director of Primary Education at Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust, said: “We are incredibly proud to be named a Microsoft Showcase School, which celebrates the innovative ways our staff use technology to enrich learning, inspire our pupils and improve outcomes. It reflects not only the creativity and dedication of our team, but also the curiosity and engagement of our children, who thrive in a technology-rich environment.
“This status will allow us to continue developing future-ready skills across the curriculum, share best practice with schools worldwide and provide staff with opportunities for professional growth, ensuring our pupils receive the best possible education in a rapidly evolving digital world.”
For Shireland Technology Primary, technology is not about children sitting silently in front of screens. Instead, digital tools are used creatively to bring learning to life. Pupils might travel back in time in the school’s immersive room, programme robots to solve problems, or create digital animations to retell a story.
This work is guided by the school’s bespoke Digital Learner Framework, which ensures pupils develop the full range of skills they need: digital literacy to communicate and problem-solve, digital citizenship to use technology safely and responsibly, and technological skills to innovate with confidence.
Balance remains key. Offline and hands on activities continue to be highly valued, but digital tools are cleverly woven throughout the curriculum to enhance learning and accelerate progress. Classrooms are equipped with interactive smartboards, laptops, robotics kits and audio-visual technology, giving pupils the opportunity to tackle real-world challenges and share their work with audiences far beyond the school gates.
Paul Ford, Account Executive at Microsoft Elevate, commented: “I’m absolutely delighted to see Shireland Technology recognised as a Microsoft Showcase School.
“This achievement reflects the incredible dedication and passion of the team in creating an innovative, technology-rich learning environment. I’m so proud to work alongside such an inspiring school and see the positive impact they’re making on learners every day. Congratulations to everyone involved!”
The school builds on the track record of Shireland Collegiate Academy, the Trust’s founding secondary school. Staff at Shireland Technology Primary are equally committed to innovation, with many having achieved Microsoft Educator Expert and Certified Expert accreditations as part of the programme. These awards connect them to a national network of education technology specialists and strengthening expertise across the school.
Showcase School status is not just a recognition of the school’s achievements, but a platform for future growth. It opens the door to global projects and partnerships, while reaffirming Shireland Technology Primary’s dedication to providing every child with future-ready skills and a lifelong love of learning.
