it4L

The ICT mark, already gained by two schools in Shropshire (Clunbury and Greenfields), gives recognition to the fact that a school is ‘good’ in all aspects of ICT. To achieve it, schools must complete the Becta Self-Review Framework . Throughout this, the ICT mark standard is indicated at every element. If a schools achieves this standard, they may register for ICT mark assessment.
Schools will need to have done the SRF online as the first part of the assessment is to send the SRF with the commentary to the external assessor.
The assessor will scrutinise the SRF and then visit the school for half a day, talking to a member of the SMT, at least one teacher and some children, asking questions and viewing evidence to support the application. At the end of the session, the school is told whether or not they have achieved the ICT mark, and feedback is given on future development. There is a cost of £400 for primary schools under 100, £500 for primaries over 100 and £600 for secondaries for this assessment. 
Many schools that have gone through the process have found that external bodies have accepted the ICT mark as evidence that ICT is good in the school. Some have used the ICT mark as a way of showing to governors and parents that the school is providing value for money, after spending heavily on ICT equipment. Others have found it a way of enhancing staff confidence and self-belief in themselves as e-mature professionals, and also as an aid to recruitment. More benefits here
The ICT mark is not designed for schools who are outstanding in one or two aspects of ICT, but those who are good across the board. We are sure there are many such schools in Shropshire, so it may be worth considering applying for your school.
For schools who feel they are already working at the standards, there is a streamlined approach to assessment that has just become available - schools still need to complete the SRF, but can do so in a diagnostic way, without filling in the commentary, and can provide a commentary and evidence per element rather than per strand. Contact andrea@it4l.org for further information. External assessment is still required.
For more information on the ICT mark, click here, or contact us