Each month, Digital Schoolhouse welcomes you to The Playful Classroom,
where we'll explore the challenges and opportunities shaping computing education today.
Shahneila Saeed is Head of Education at Ukie and the Director of Digital Schoolhouse. She served as Head of Computing at an Inner London school for over 15 years before joining Ukie, where she spearheaded the creation of the Digital Schoolhouse Programme.
She is a prolific author, having penned books like "Hacking the Curriculum: Creative Computing & the Power of Play", "How to Raise a Tech Genius" and the forthcoming “Max Computing” series. She actively contributes to the field as a board member, trustee, and advisor for organisations including NCCE, Digit<all>, and Into Games.
"…one of the most powerful tools we have to boost children’s physical activity, wellbeing, confidence and creativity is being overlooked: play."
These inspiring words from Paul Lindley OBE, Chair of the Raising the Nation Play Commission, perfectly encapsulate a profound truth we champion every day at Digital Schoolhouse. Play isn't just for the playground; it's a dynamic force that can transform our classrooms.
We understand that introducing new approaches can sometimes feel like an uphill climb, especially when challenging traditional perceptions of rigorous academics. Yet, at Digital Schoolhouse, we've seen firsthand how infusing lessons with fun and playfulness unlocks incredible potential. Thanks to our passionate, creative, and open-minded Lead Teachers, we consistently demonstrate that joy and learning are not just compatible, but powerful partners.
Bridging the Gap: Playful Learning in Action
So, what happens when we intentionally bridge the perceived gap between play and formal education? The "Everything to Play For" report offers a clear vision, recommending that "Schools are supported to harness the power of play for learning and wellbeing. This includes: teachers, support staff and school leaders receiving high-quality training on how to integrate play into both the curriculum and daily routines."
This is precisely where Digital Schoolhouse shines. For the past ten years, we've been dedicated to demonstrating how play can be seamlessly woven into the school curriculum and holistic teaching approaches. We take this commitment even further by embedding a play-based learning approach directly into our teacher training. This empowers educators with the confidence and tools to use these transformative methods in their own teaching, creating vibrant and engaging learning environments.
Conferences Reimagined: Engaging Experiences for Educators
As we celebrate our summer season of events, reflecting on the inspiring Festival of Play events in Dundee and Belfast, and eagerly anticipating our upcoming Playful Computing Conference and the final Festival of Play in London, it's clear this is more than just "conference season." We're delivering four unique events in four weeks—three engaging days for students and a three-day residential experience designed exclusively for teachers.
What truly sets these experiences apart from traditional tech conferences? Our unwavering belief that these aren't just events; they are immersive, fun, and playful experiences designed to inspire and educate.
Why is fun so central to our approach? Because when learning is enjoyable, it becomes deeply memorable. This memorability sparks a natural desire to continue exploring and learning. From an academic perspective, both children and adults gain a deeper understanding and stronger grasp of concepts, coupled with a significantly increased motivation to continue their learning journey. This approach is incredibly effective in inspiring more individuals to pursue exciting STEAM careers.
It's vital to recognise that learning through play isn't something we outgrow. While traditional systems may sometimes suppress this natural inclination, as the "Everything to Play For" report highlights, it remains a powerful pathway to discovery. When we integrate play-based learning with adults, we observe the same remarkable impacts: boosted confidence, enhanced engagement, profound understanding, stronger social connections, and so much more.
This is a Heading
At our upcoming Playful Computing Conference, educators won't just be passive attendees. They'll be actively remixing games, collaborating with box monsters, solving engaging puzzles, crafting imaginative stories, and exploring cutting-edge technologies like VR. We intentionally build in unstructured social time – moments for genuine play and connection, however, they choose to engage. You might just see a lively Mario Kart tournament among teachers or an impromptu karaoke session, enjoying the beautiful grounds of the University of Westminster.
Will they learn anything? Absolutely. They'll gain invaluable insights from our incredible expert speakers, but just as importantly, they'll learn from each other. They'll forge meaningful connections, find supportive colleagues who understand the dynamic landscape of education today, and meet people with whom they can exchange ideas and refine approaches. We provide the freedom and stimulation that creative minds thrive on. Our teachers are truly remarkable, and sometimes all they need is the dedicated time and space to think, reflect, and connect.
Our Festival of Play embodies this same playful philosophy. Our students (and their accompanying teachers) will experience a captivating magic show that illuminates computer science principles, develop a unique paper-based yet digital game, share engaging stories, get hands-on with exciting new technologies, and connect with both their peers and industry professionals. Imagine a tech conference that's everything you've ever wished for: a place that's genuinely fun, deeply engaging, and rich with memorable connections and experiences.
The Answer is Clear: Let's Play.
Can we truly bridge the gap between playful experiences and rigorous classroom learning? Without a doubt, we can. At Digital Schoolhouse, we demonstrate this powerful synergy every single day. We invite you to experience it for yourself – join us at the Playful Computing Conference and discover the transformative power of play.
