Every child should have the opportunity to realise his or her full potential in the classroom, at home, and in the world at large. Empowered with the knowledge and skills that can only come from a good education, individuals are better equipped to enjoy a more fulfilling life and to thrive in the digital workplace. At Microsoft, we believe that information and communications technology (ICT) can be a powerful catalyst to improving teaching and learning for all and that we should play our part in broadening access to ICT and engaging and empowering students and teachers to use technology in creative and innovative ways. Through Partners in Learning, Microsoft can make a contribution by working together with schools, teachers, the government and partners from the education community. With the Scottish Qualifications Authority, the Training and Development Agency for Schools, the Welsh Assembly Government and Futurelab, we can help give today's children the best possible start in life.
With very significant government investment in ICT for education in recent years, the guidance of the Departments for Education in England, Scotland and Wales and of Becta, the government’s lead agency for technology in UK schools, has been to focus Partners in Learning on activities which will encourage better use of the technologies already in the classroom – activities which will help us realise the value of ICT for education. Working in partnership with lead agencies and organisations, our clear goals are:
- To support teachers and inspire learners – providing skills, CPD, curriculum and a rich community for sharing experience and resources
- To innovate – to explore new ways of using technology to enrich and transform the teaching and learning experience
 | In England, the Training and Development Agency for Schools (TDA) carries the prime responsibility for securing an effective schools workforce - developing people to improve young lives. |
 | In Scotland, the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) is the national body responsible for the development, accreditation, assessment and certification of qualifications other than degrees. The SQA works in partnership with representatives from education, industry, commerce, government and social partners. |
 | In Wales, The Welsh Assembly Government (WAG) carries the responsibility for implementing policy which improves education and training so raising levels of achievement and empowering learners. |
 | Futurelab is a registered charity. It pioneers ways of using new technologies to transform the learning experience by bringing together the creative, technical and educational communities. The Partners in Learning investment in innovation will be achieved through a major, long-term partnership with Futurelab, entitled 'Enquiring Minds'. |
 | The Microsoft IT Academy Programme and the Microsoft Innovative Teachers Programme are both supported by Partners in Learning. The programmes on offer engage students, inspire teachers and foster best-practice sharing. |
 | Microsoft Fresh Start and Microsoft Authorised Refurbisher (MAR) programmes have been set up so schools can use donated computers and second use and refurbished PCs. |
 | Tips and tricks which have been discovered and developed by teachers up and down the country. |
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