The report, Powered by Connected Falkirk, highlights the numerous improvements being made and impact of the five-year Connected Falkirk programme which has transformed access to technology, strengthened digital skills, supported improved learning experiences in Falkirk schools, and provided accessibility tools to all pupils to overcome barriers to learning.   

Since 2020, Connected Falkirk has provided:  

• more than 16,000 devices to pupils - a digital device for all Primary 6 to Secondary 6 school pupils and at a ratio of 1:5 for Primary 1 to Primary 5 classes.  
• a device to every class teacher, supported by an accredited professional learning programme. 
• fast, reliable internet connectivity in all Falkirk schools and ELCs. 
• families with an opportunity to be digitally connected. 

The aim of the programme was to ensure equity of access. Pupils in Falkirk now benefit from having the same devices, software and secure network access regardless of which school they attend.  

The programme has transformed the learning landscape by extending connectivity beyond school buildings, enabling seamless access in libraries and community spaces. This has removed the technical barriers to “anytime, anywhere” learning and narrowed the digital divide ensuring that every pupil has a reliable place to study regardless of their home internet situation.  

Connected Falkirk devices are filtered so provide a secure digital environment, maintaining the same level of online safety found in school no matter where pupils are. 

Independent evaluations by HMIE, a Scottish Government agency responsible for providing independent, expert evaluation of the quality of education in schools and other learning services, as well as Queen Margaret University has confirmed the programme’s impact, highlighting: 

• digital learning is now increasingly recognised as a strength in Falkirk schools.  
• high levels of daily device use in both primary and secondary schools.
• improved independent learning and research skills.
• more creative and varied assessment approaches.
• stronger and more frequent home learning.
• improved digital skills for both staff and pupils. 

More than 90 per cent of teachers reported that their digital skills have improved since the introduction of the programme, with digital tools now part of daily teaching practice across Falkirk schools. 

The programme has also expanded curriculum opportunities. Through Connected Learning, pupils can now access a wider range of Higher and Advanced Higher subjects, regardless of which school they attend.  

Digital reading has also seen significant growth. The use of the BorrowBox digital library platform has increased by more than 200% since Connected Falkirk began, providing learners with instant access to eBooks and audiobooks, including dyslexia-friendly accessibility tools. 

Building on strong digital foundations, Falkirk is now leading the way in responsible AI education. The Council has introduced AI guiding principles, established a Falkirk AI Teacher Network, and delivered some of its most highly attended professional learning sessions to date.