Askham Bryan College

Centre of excellence in mixed reality

Askham Bryan College is transforming education through a digital sustainability lens. Developing its campus to be a centre of excellence for mixed reality drawing on virtual, augmented and metaverse technology to improve the student experience. By simulating real world experiences, developing an innovative approach to digital teaching, digital learning, digital assessment, and digital upskilling through its mixed reality environment in all its subjects.

Through these technologies we are able to create unique and sustainable learning experiences, developed in house by the teachers, students, and our e-learning co-ordinator. These experiences can be shared across our campuses and are truly limitless in design and cater for any and all subjects, limiting the need to travel or using resources. They are also amendable, so will never be old and out of date. We can forever make changes and amends, making our mixed reality approach future proof and sustainable.

What the Judges Thought

The judges felt that this innovative project really demonstrated the way in which technology can be used to enhance teaching and learning. It was felt that this project increased accessibility to a wider range of learners who may not otherwise have the same opportunities and experiences. We were impressed by the breadth of the project, both in terms of how far it appeared to be embedded across the curriculum, but also seemingly high engagement within the college and community.

What it Means to Win

‘We couldn’t be prouder to have won this prestigious award, we are driving forward digital technology with a great sense of urgency and moral duty.  We know that this focus on digital through a sustainability lens is fundamental to everything we do.  Enabling us to build the skills our students need to become the very best guardians and custodians of a sustainable future world."

Dr Tim Whitaker, Principal and CEO

Top 3 Learnings

1. We realised early on that advancements in education don’t come from imitation they come from innovation. We had to be brave!
2. Don’t dip a toe, don’t be too cautious, leap into the unknown - it is pretty scary, but so rewarding.
3. Things are never perfect, perfection is a myth, we learnt that pretty early on, but progress beats perfection every time.