For once here’s a “launch” that has something to do with water. A new online service to support and extend children’s learning both in and out of school, called DigiSmart, was launched on HMS Belfast on the river Thames this week. Created by LIFT (Lifting Expectation and Achievement), the DigiSmart programme consists of once-a-week club sessions aimed at under-achieving 9 and 10-year-olds with targets for internet and literacy skills. citizenship and PSHE. These are held over a year with young people emerging as “DigiSmart “consultants” (intended to provide motivation and celebrate their achievement). Trials this year have recorded 90 per cent attendance with improvements in children’s attainment. A key factor is the involvement of parents.

www.lift.org.ukaboutdigismartindex.htm