Aberdeen teachers and education professionals have the opportunity to demonstrate their digital innovation thanks to a first-of-its-kind digital education awards scheme launched yesterday (Wednesday 4 Feb).
The Digital Education Awards Scotland (DEAS) scheme aims to highlight the outstanding work of educators who champion digital skills in classrooms and beyond, encouraging best practice, career development and better outcomes for learners.
The national programme also supports Scotland’s commitment to developing a digitally capable workforce and closing digital skills gaps in schools. Enhancing teacher capacity and ensuring students develop digital skills are a key focus of the National Improvement Framework (NIF) for Scottish education.
Education and Children’s Services Convenor, Councillor Martin Greig, said: ““Our Education team has long been at the forefront of best practice digital learning and innovation. This was highlighted by the team’s response to the Covid pandemic where every pupil was provided with laptops to ensure access to home learning.
“This commitment was recognised at national level and so it is great that our teachers and education professionals again have the opportunity to achieve recognition through the awards scheme. The expertise and dedication of staff is much appreciated as all our learners benefit from their positive support and innovative attitude.”
Kris Carbis, Depute Head Teacher at Braehead School, said: “Taking part in the Digital Educator Award will give me a valuable opportunity to reflect deeply on my own professional goals, particularly around how I use digital tools to enhance learning and ensuring equity of access for all pupils.
“I hope through this process, I will be able to recognise my contribution to digital education within the school – whether through modelling effectively digital pedagogy, supporting colleagues or developing blended learning experiences that genuinely improves outcomes.
“Engaging in this award has the potential to strengthen not only my own digital competencies but also to build capacity across the school, fostering a culture where confidence and creativity with digital learning become the norm.”
Research shows digital skills are critical in today’s labour market. Skills Development Scotland reports that 77% of jobs in Scotland now require digital skills as part of the normal application and work process.
DEAS hopes that by promoting and celebrating educators who go above and beyond to support children, it can help improve educational outcomes and life chances for all.
The initiative is open to teachers as well as other professionals involved within the education of young people including colleges, support staff and early year practitioners. Three awards are available through the programme: Digital Educator, Digital Influencer and Digital Leader.
Applications open in February, with awards to be announced at a ceremony in June 2026.
Anna Doody, Director of Programmes, DEAS, said: “These awards reflect the strength of Scotland’s existing digital framework and will ensure those taking proactive steps to promote the country’s digital skills agenda are appropriately recognised. The three-tiered approach provides a pathway for schools and professionals to raise standards and inspire others to embed digital teaching across the curriculum.
“This partnership which includes businesses, local authorities, the teaching profession and Scottish Government is a globally leading programme design to ensure collaboration and learnings are shared, promoted and celebrated.”
Luigi Pessina, Director of Global Education, Intel, said: “Intel is delighted to partner on the Digital Education Awards Scotland, recognising educators who are leading the way in digital learning. Through programmes like Skills for Innovation, we are committed to supporting Scotland’s ambition to build a digitally confident workforce and ensuring every learner gains the skills required to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving economy.”
Educators interested in entering the Digital Education Awards Scotland can find entry criteria, categories and application details at https://digitaleducatorawards.com/
