Transforming how we work

Equipped for Learning

Four years since Midlothian Council launched the most ambitious learning project of its kind in Scotland, more than 15,000 pupils have equal access to digital skills and tools for learning, life and work. 

The £10.5 million Equipped for Learning transformation project provides all school-age young people with a digital device for learning. Our Early Learning Centres also have access to technology to support learning.

The picture shows Gorebridge Primary pupils using Equipped for Learning digital devices.

Skills for life

Through using technology, pupils are taking greater responsibility and ownership of their learning, including in literacy and numeracy. This is helping to prepare young people for their future careers and helping them to develop the digital skills they need for learning, life and work. 

Keeping young people safe

A key feature of the project is ensuring that devices for learning are appropriate and safe. A range of supports are offered to schools to achieve this, alongside a joined-up approach to digital safeguarding. Resources and support for families about keeping safe online are available on the EfL website. 

Accessibility software for all

Accessibility software is available as standard for every child and teacher, reducing stigma and boosting use of literacy support tools by more than 500%. 

Families across Midlothian are also able to download literacy support software to their own devices for free, thanks to a world-first partnership between Midlothian Council and digital software supplier, Texthelp.

Read&Write helps with everyday tasks like reading text out loud, understanding unfamiliar words, researching assignments and proofing written work. These tools are essential for some learners and useful for all.

Having a device that can translate documents into another language, access essential council services and overcome additional support needs, also helps services connect and co-ordinate supports for family members.

The literacy software was rolled out to all families at a launch event in October 2023.

Supporting success

Teachers and pupils work with Midlothian's Digital Inclusion and Learning Team on a regular basis, developing digital skills and linking this to their wider learning. You can find out more about the support offered to schools in the Digital Discovery brochure.

Monitoring and Evaluation

Strong governance and a high-level strategy ensure there is a clear process of monitoring, evaluating and reporting progress.  

Videos 

Testimonials

Harry, who is dyslexic, says he uses Read&Write mainly for writing. The accessibility software translates his spoken word into written text. He says: “Read&Write saves me a lot of time and boosts my confidence.”

Louis uses Read&Write to help him find the “right word” and expand his vocabulary. “I also use it to check my spelling,” he says.  

Nominations and Awards

• Learning Places Scotland Transforming Learning, Teaching and the Curriculum (2023 winner)
• Gartner Eye on Innovation Award 2023
• Digital Equity for Families Education Scotland case study (2024)
• Google Digital Skills for All case study (2022)