BRIDGWATER & Taunton College (BTC) is improving the digital experience of their students by providing full-time Level 3 learners an iPad for the duration of their studies with the college.

This is an integral part of the College’s Digital Transformation project, which ensures students are both interacting and engaged whilst learning.

This year has seen the largest quantity of iPads provided, with over 1,500 iPads being loaned to students - nearly double of what was distributed in the 2022/23 academic year.

Each student studying a Level 3 course, across a wide array of subjects, now have access to their own iPad for the duration of their course.

This essential tool opens the door to a vast range of educational resources, including interactive textbooks, educational apps, digital libraries, and accessibility tools.

The initiative ensures that all students have the necessary tools to succeed, regardless of their individual circumstances.

BTC are taking huge strides to ensure they are giving their students the best digital experience possible.

Alongside the iPad deployment, the BTC Backpack has been created to ensure students have a positive and safe digital experience, and make the most of the software the College utilises.

As recognition for their achievements, BTC has been accredited in two separate academic years (2022/23 and 2023/24) by Microsoft as a Showcase College; an elite group of colleges that exemplify the best of teaching and learning in the world today.

Matt Tudor, vice principal, strategy & partnerships, said: “Our BTC ConnectED strategy, centred on Confidence, Creativity, and Collaboration, has identified the optimal approach to enhancing our students' digital and learning skills while providing equal opportunities for achievement, regardless of their home environment.

“Our goal is to ensure that every student, regardless of their background, has the tools and skills to succeed.

“By supplying nearly 2,000 Level 3 students with the latest Apple 10th generation iPads, we significantly enrich their learning experience and advance their future digital skills.

“Feedback from both staff and students reflects the substantial impact of this initiative.

“By standardising devices and offering thorough training, we ensure equality across the board, enabling everyone to excel.”

BTC will continue to refine and innovate in the digital sphere, adopting new technologies to enhance the learning experience of every student.

The 2024/25 academic year has also seen the introduction of Century Tech, which accelerates learning, enhances teaching and reduces workload with evidence-based scientific and pedagogical techniques.

For more information on future events and BTC’s multitude of educational offerings, please visit www.btc.ac.uk or get in touch with the Information & Advice team by emailing info@btc.ac.uk