A TECH-savvy school is in the running for a national prize for its use of iPads and laptops to teach pupils both in the classroom and in lockdown.

Bosses at West Leigh Junior School are over the moon to have been shortlisted for the Tes Schools Awards, beating hundreds of schools in the best use of technology category.

Executive head Cheryl Woolf says the Covid pandemic has not only taught teachers more about the virtual world, but has also forced them to rely on technology more than ever.

Whether it be interactive whiteboards and computer suites on site, or assemblies streamed online, students have been able to make the most of tech.

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Speaking of the achievement, Mrs Woolf said: “We’re absolutely chuffed to have been shortlisted, it was such a big surprise to be among the eight in our category.

“We’re lucky in that our pupils have access to a device at any time of the day, with laptops, iPads and computers on site.

“During lockdown we especially learnt a lot more about technology and have become more tech-savvy, carrying out remote lessons - some live and some not.

“Regardless we made sure each class and year group had their own teacher delivering the lessons, it gives the kids that bit more familiarity.

“We’ve got interactive whiteboards in classrooms and through lockdown we did a whole lot of videos which were uploaded onto our YouTube.”

The school, who were nominated by a proud parent, now largely communicate with families through their website along with social media including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Mrs Woolf added: “We are quite creative in what we do, the children used an app called Showbie through the pandemic to upload their work which we’re carrying on even now.

“Whatever happens we’re so chuffed to even be shortlisted, everyone has done so well.”

Winners will be announced on June 25.