Empowering Every Learner: The Freshfield Primary Digital Journey

At the heart of the North West, Freshfield Primary School is redefining what a 21st-century classroom looks like. As a key partner in the EdTech Hubs programme (Provided by LGfL and EdTech UK), Freshfield has transitioned from technology adopters to regional leaders, proving that when pedagogy drives technology, the results are transformative. You can see this in action in our new case study,

A Culture of "Informed Risk-Taking"

Freshfield’s success isn't just about hardware; it's about a leadership culture that encourages staff to innovate. The school has moved away from traditional "rows and front-led delivery," opting instead for a fluid environment that mirrors the modern world.

"We’re not frightened of taking risks as a school... As long as you keep to your ethos and your philosophy of what you believe children need, you don’t go wrong. It’s about starting with the learner and what they need, rather than the app."

Julie Osbaldeston, Deputy Headteacher - Freshfield Primary School

Breaking Barriers with Inclusive Tech

One of the most impactful elements of Freshfield's digital strategy is its focus on inclusion. By leveraging the latest online EdTech tools, the school has successfully removed many learning barriers for pupils with SEND.

From digital communication grids to voice-capture software, technology acts as a bridge for students who struggle with traditional written expression.

"For our most disadvantaged learners or children with particular needs, we’ve used technology to take away barriers. It enables children to express themselves in ways they wouldn’t be able to at their stage of development, allowing them to truly thrive."

Hayley Ward, Headteacher - Freshfield Primary School

The Physical Evolution: Learning Zones

Freshfield has redesigned its physical space to support its strategic goals. Visitors to their EdTech Study Tour on the 17th March 2026 will see four distinct zones:

• Collaboration Booths: For group problem-solving.
• Study Horseshoes: For targeted 1-to-1 staff support.
• Independent Stations: Giving pupils autonomy over their tools.
• Focus Areas: For deep, tech-enriched research.
  

These zones transform the settings from a place where students are taught into a space where students learn. It shifts the focus from 'how do we fit the child into the room' to 'how does the room empower the child’.

Witness the "Live Classroom"

Through the LGfL Live Classroom initiative, educators can see these strategies in action. As a strong advocate for peer-to-peer support, Freshfield found the "showcase" approach allows other schools to observe how a 1:1 device ratio, combined with expert pedagogy, can stretch even the most able pupils.

"We aren't just copying what others do; we see, we get inspired, and then we ask: 'What does that look like at Freshfield?' We make things suit our children, our school, and our community."

Emma Williams, Senior Teacher - Freshfield Primary School

See Emma’s response to the LEO Academy Trust live lesson at Bett 2026

Join the Community

By focusing on outcomes first and technology second, they have created an environment where every child,  regardless of their starting point,  is "Committed to Excellence."

We are delighted to welcome Freshfield Primary School in Formby to the EdTech Hubs programme as a lead school.

Are you ready to transform your school’s digital landscape?

• Explore the EdTech Hubs Home for resources.
• Check out the Live Classroom for teaching inspiration.
• Visit the PedTech Portal for leadership in the effective use of technology in everyday teaching and learning
  

Join us at Freshfield Primary School for an EdTech Hubs Study Tour event on the 17th March 2026