Here at LEO Academy Trust, PedTech is at the heart of our digital transformation journey, starting from Early Years. 

We implement PedTech in EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) because we recognise that technology can be a powerful tool to facilitate learning, especially in early childhood education. 

Delivered in conjunction with interactive media and digital feedback, educational technology plays a large role in the overall development of young children. It allows them to play, express themselves, and cultivate lifelong skills in a safe, accessible and engaging way. 

Still, many raise concerns regarding the use of technology in children’s Nursery and Reception years, especially when it comes to managing screen time. 

While we believe that cautiousness is a legitimate response to the risks of excessive screen time, we also believe in the power of a proactive approach to digital technology in the classroom for nurturing future-ready children. 

Why include PedTech in Nursery and Reception? 

Digital technology continues to be ever-present in everyday life, and in this digital age, knowing how to use digital tools confidently and safely is a crucial skill for everyone. 

When children incorporate technology into their Early Years curriculum, they grow up knowing how to use it safely and as a means to enhance their learning journey, instead of a distraction. 

But the benefits of incorporating PedTech in EYFS go beyond internet safety and digital confidence alone…  

Consistency 

Much like other key skills like Reading and Writing, digital skills require a cumulative and consistent approach. 

We believe that it’s this consistency that allows our youngest learners to adapt to new information and seamlessly learn how to incorporate digital tools into their lives, boosting their confidence, independence and critical thinking skills. 

Children at LEO begin their digital journey gently within the Early Years, building up their digital skills over time so they are ready to reap the full benefits of digital technology education in Key Stages 1 and 2.  

Independence 

When children learn how to use pedagogy-informed technology such as adaptive programs like Seesaw, they can feel more empowered in their learning journey and practice learning independently, at their own pace. 

This is especially important for children with SEND, who can use digital technology to choose any tools they need for extra support.  

Development 

Incorporating PedTech principles and technology inside the classroom also improves children’s physical and cognitive development. 

Interaction with technology, such as swiping items on a tablet and typing supports the development of fine motor skills and strengthens hand-eye coordination. The sensory and cause-and-effect interactions in educational games and digital tools can also improve children’s reaction time to different stimuli, as well as their ability to multitask.  

How does LEO implement PedTech in Early Years learning? 

At LEO Academy Trust, we strategically incorporate PedTech to enrich our Early Years learning, using digital tools as a supportive element within the curriculum. 

Our approach focuses on developing foundational skills relevant to a modern, digital world, while simultaneously emphasising responsible and safe technology usage. This involves instilling good digital citizenship principles from an early age. 

A critical aspect of our implementation is the focus on online safety. Recognising the early exposure children have to technology before they even enter school, we equip our children with the necessary knowledge to navigate the online world safely and ethically. 

This includes addressing issues that can lead to behaviour challenges, such as excessive time spent on devices. For example, we might implement structured activities that incorporate digital tools for specific learning objectives, followed by periods of screen-free play and interaction. This helps children understand that technology is a tool to be used purposefully, rather than a constant source of entertainment. By balancing digital and traditional learning methods, they ensure that PedTech enhances, rather than dominates, the Early Years experience. 

Technology as a Developmental Tool 

We are committed to developing children’s digital skills in the Early Years by incorporating practical, age-appropriate activities that empower children to use technology creatively and responsibly. 

For instance, educators might guide children in taking photographs using tablets or digital cameras, teaching them about composition and capturing their environment. This not only develops their technical skills but also encourages observation and artistic expression. 

Similarly, voice recording tools can be used as valuable accessibility aids, allowing children with speech or language difficulties to participate more fully in activities. They might record stories, create audio diaries, or use voice commands to interact with educational apps. 

These examples illustrate how LEO Academy Trust integrates technology into the Early Years curriculum in a way that is both engaging and beneficial, fostering digital literacy while prioritising safety and inclusivity, which will then continue to support them as they move into Key Stage 1. 

You can learn more about the LEO Early Years Strategy on our website or see for yourself how our digital strategy has impacted children throughout all key stages here.