Bronagh Bell, spokeswoman for the Scottish Executive’s curriculum agency, Learning and Teaching Scotland (LTScotland) said teachers who fail to go to SETT 2002 may risk missing out on vital best-practice information for ICT.

Bell said: “SETT 2002 is designed to encourage the effective use of ICT in the classroom. The show will give teachers an opportunity to share best practice with colleagues, and to see what resources are available and to inspire them to take ICT back to the classroom.”

The show, organised by LTScotland and EMAP Education and supported by TES Scotland, is aimed at policy makers and teachers working in all levels of teaching, from primary schools through to those in further education.

Over two days, delegates will be able to attend seminars on initiatives for educational ICT, hear keynote speeches from acclaimed advocates of technology in the classroom, including US-based Alan November, who also spoke at SETT last year, and explore new products.

Also being showcased at SETT are projects currently being funded by National Grid for Learning Scotland, which has already attracted a widespread following among schools in the country.

The NGFL in Action stand will exhibit online teaching resources that are already in use in schools. Demonstrations will show how teachers can integrate the internet into everyday lessons, showcase a series of interactive events that local children have participated in - including Virtual Oil Spill - and introduce teachers to video-conferencing, web support services and cross-curricular activities available for secondary pupils.

Mike Baughan, CEO of LTScotland commented: “SETT offers all those involved in Scottish education a unique staff development opportunity to engage with those who are successfully integrating ICT in a wide range of learning and teaching contexts.”

Over 100 educational ICT suppliers will exhibit products designed for use in the classroom including gadgets such as electronic whiteboards and online resources, plus software and hardware designed to help schools build a solid IT structure for educational pursuits.

Geared towards the Scottish school curriculum, SETT 2002 is expected to attract a significant and growing audience of up to 3,000 classroom practitioners, up 600 on last year’s figures.

Baughan said: “It is clear from the demand for places that this year’s programme is proving to be attractive and meeting needs.”

SETT 2002 is the Scottish sister-show of London’s annual ICT in education event, BETT, that attracted over 22,000 visitors and around 500 exhibiting companies earlier this year.

SETT 2002, September 25-26 www.settshow.com

Heather McLean