Jonny Wathen, Chief Information Officer, The TransforMATive, James Browning, Chief Operating Officer, Academies Enterprise Trust
The rise of the Technology Support Officer
Recognising the need to support its staff in the digital age, AET introduced a brand new and pivotal role: the Technology Support Officer (TSO). This role goes beyond the more traditional in-school support role of troubleshooting technical issues, and bridges the gap between technology and its users, ensuring that no staff member feels left behind in this digital revolution. This investment is testament to AET's commitment to fostering a digitally literate workforce.
A skills matrix for digital literacy
To ensure a structured and comprehensive approach, AET developed a skills matrix that spans across its IT workforce. This matrix is a roadmap for IT staff, ensuring an appropriate level of skills are present in the service they provide. It also serves as a path for the TSO to develop their skills and benefit the schools they work with. In time, the matrix will ensure that every individual, regardless of their starting point, can confidently utilise digital tools in their daily work.
Evidence of impact
The fruits of this initiative are evident in the improved Net Promoter Score (NPS) of AET’s IT service. This metric, often used to gauge customer satisfaction, indicates that AET's staff not only appreciate the digital tools and support at their disposal but also recommends them. This is a clear indication of the success of the TSO initiative and the skills matrix that underpins the service as a whole.
Beyond digital literacy – leveraging a wider digital toolset
The role of the TSO isn't confined to internal upskilling or technology in the classroom. They have also been pivotal in leveraging a wider digital toolset, such as social media and marketing tools. By doing so, they have ensured that AET's achievements and offerings are not just known within the Trust but are communicated to a wider audience.
The TransforMATive Leadership Programme
As we celebrate the achievements of AET, it's crucial to recognise that the journey of digital transformation is ongoing. To further this mission, AET is delighted to be supporting the TransforMATive Leadership programme. This programme, which is a collaboration between TransforMATive and Google for Education, aims to provide strategic leadership and digital transformation insights specifically tailored for multi-academy trusts. For those who wish to be at the forefront of EdTech evolution, this programme is not to be missed.
In conclusion, the journey of AET serves as an inspiration for all multi-academy trusts. It's a testament to what can be achieved when there's a clear vision, dedicated roles like the TSO, and the power of tools like Google Workspace. Let's come together, learn, and lead our trusts to a future where technology and education go hand in hand.
The CST Blog welcomes perspectives from a diverse range of guest contributors. The opinions expressed in blogs are the views of the author(s), and should not be read as CST guidance or CST’s position.
