ETIH Innovation Awards 2026: spotlight on Best Use of EdTech in Schools and Further Education

This category recognizes schools and further education colleges using EdTtech to improve teaching, learning, or operations.

We’re continuing our series exploring each category in the ETIH Innovation Awards 2026, taking a closer look at what the judges expect and what makes a strong submission.

This edition focuses on Best Use of EdTech in Schools and Further Education, a category celebrating institutions that have successfully integrated education technology to improve classroom practice, student experience, or operational efficiency. Entries should demonstrate clear, evidence-backed impact.

What this category covers

This category highlights real-world implementation of edtech within schools and further education colleges. Eligible entries must come from education institutions rather than vendors and should focus on how technology is used in practice.

Entries may include examples of:

• digital tools supporting teaching and learning

• assessment, feedback, and progress tracking systems

• student engagement and participation platforms

• data-driven approaches to school or college improvement

• operational systems improving efficiency or communication

• AI-supported tools used in classroom or administrative contexts

• blended or digital-first learning models

• staff professional development enabled by technology

What judges will look for

Judges will assess how effectively edtech has been implemented and the extent to which it delivers meaningful improvements.

Entries should address:

• the challenge or need the institution was aiming to address

• how edtech was selected, introduced, and embedded

• evidence of improved student engagement, outcomes, or experience

• operational efficiencies such as time savings or improved workflows

• staff and student feedback on usability and impact

• lessons learned during implementation and adoption

Strong submissions will balance strategic intent with practical delivery and outcomes.

How to strengthen your submission

Entrants are encouraged to provide detailed case studies outlining their edtech journey. Judges value transparency around challenges, change management, and how barriers were addressed.

Submissions will be strengthened by:

• clear before-and-after comparisons

• quantitative data showing improvements in outcomes or efficiency

• direct feedback from students, teachers, or college staff

• evidence of scalability or wider adoption across departments

Showing how EdTech supports long-term improvement rather than one-off gains will strengthen the submission.

Why enter this category

Best Use of EdTech in Schools and Further Education offers institutions an opportunity to showcase thoughtful, evidence-led use of technology in education. Shortlisted entries will be featured on edtechinnovationhub.com and across ETIH channels, reaching educators, leaders, policymakers, and sector stakeholders.

Entries are reviewed by an independent judging panel with expertise across school leadership, further education, pedagogy, and EdTech. Many institutions find the submission process valuable for reflecting on impact and sharing best practice.

How to enter

To enter, download an entry form or submit via the link below. The entry deadline is Friday, 27 March 2026. The shortlist will be announced on Tuesday, 2 April 2026, and winners will be revealed on Monday, 27 April 2026.

Entries from schools and further education colleges are free of charge.. Once your entry form has been received, confirmation will be sent by email.

For questions or further information, please contact Director of Content Emma Thompson.