Kate Penarski and some of her pupils
A Preston primary school teacher is one of five UK teachers who will be flying to the states for a prestigious teaching event.
Kate Penarski from Ashbridge Independent School in Hutton has been chosen for the Discovery Education Summer Institute in North Carolina.
Chosen for her enthusiasm in teaching with technology, the Year Six Teacher will jet off in July, joining over 100 educators at the University of North Carolina, Wilmington.
Now in its 13th year, the Discovery Education Summer Institute connects teachers from around the world to share the latest ideas and technology through professional development and networking.
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Entry is by invitation only, and delegates are recognised as digital leaders.
Kate Penarski said: “I am absolutely thrilled to be chosen for this unique opportunity and can’t wait to share and learn from teachers across the globe.
“I look forward to bringing back new digital strategies and exciting new technology for our pupils at Ashbridge and continuing to be part of this global education community.”
Ashbridge Independent School
British primary school teachers were invited to apply through a rigorous process, with only five places being available at this year’s event.
Kate impressed the judging panel by capturing in her application how she has transformed teaching and learning and Is supported by her school, which highly regards digital innovation.
Kate, who previously worked as a Fellow at Harvard University in the US, has also recently been asked to share her expertise with other UK teachers in a special innovative workshop on educational thinking.
Chris Nash, Head of Community at Discovery Education UK said: “We’re delighted to invite Kate to join the 2018 Discovery Education Summer Institute.
“Her experience in the US will benefit the whole school, providing opportunities to work with teachers from around the world and bringing innovation to every classroom.”
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Joining Kate in the US are fellow UK winners Gavin Sharp from St Bede’s Catholic Primary School in Rotherham, Jonathan Brough from Hurlingham School in Putney, Hannah White from Meadowpark School in Wiltshire and Jenny Lovelock from Newnham Junior School in Hillingdon.
Lance Rougeux, Vice President of Learning Communities and Innovation at Discovery Education said: “Kate’s selection for the Discovery Education Summer Institute demonstrates her outstanding leadership and commitment to using the latest technologies, strategies and techniques to improve student achievement.
“Her participation in DENSI 2018 will help further increase student engagement at Ashbridge Independent School and support the school’s commitment to prepare all learners with the critical skills they need in the future.”
Does your child attend Ashbridge Independent School? What do you think? Let us know in the comments below