Immersive classroom for Dorset pupils
Dorset Council partners with BT so that school children can dive to the bottom of the ocean, cast spells with a dragon and meet dinosaurs.
Pupils from St George’s Primary School and Atlantic Academy on the Isle of Portland enjoyed an extraordinary learning experience using the latest tech.
Pupils from St George’s Primary School in Portland enjoy the BT immersive classroom, photo courtesy of Dorset Council
BT’s immersive classroom is the UK’s first ever 5G immersive classroom. Images are projected onto the 360-degree portable space, producing environments for the children to step into and explore.
Scenarios include outer space, a trench from the First World War and the peak of Mount Everest. Pupils can witness the Great Fire of London, then cool off by floating in the sea with some octopuses.
By touching the walls of the immersive classroom, participants can uncover facts, answer questions and affect what is projected – such as making snow or dinosaurs appear. This interactive element means children encourages children to be proactive, taking charge of their own learning experience.
The system is connected to the EE 5G network, ensuring ultrafast speeds and enhanced reliability.
For Dorset Council, collaboration with private partners such as BT can help to raise aspirations, inspire children to learn about opportunities and careers in digital, and link schools with local businesses. This partnership also supports the council’s commitment to developing digital skills in the county through the Digital Skills Partnership and its own economic growth strategy.
Cllr Jill Haynes, Portfolio Holder for Corporate Development and Transformation at Dorset Council, says: ‘We were delighted to work with BT to bring this amazing experience to school pupils in Portland.
‘The opportunities digital can now bring to education is incredibly exciting and with it we can find new ways of inspiring children to learn. It really does help to bring learning to life.’
Michael Coombs, Deputy Headteacher at St George’s Primary School, adds: ‘The children had an amazing day. They loved the whole experience, including interactive quizzes, stunning visuals, fun games and tours of the past, our world and beyond.
‘The children loved the added creativity, freedom and independence in their learning. Everyone left the space buzzing and wanting to experience more.’
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