Nominations - Education award

Adventure Ecology has educated over 18 million people with their climate crisis message that if immediate action is not taken, sea levels are predicted to rise 20ft.

Adventure Ecology brought the dangers of this crisis to life by staging Second Life’s first mass event - a virtual flood.

Second Life is an online environment where everything has real life value - perfect for simulating the economic and social effects of rising sea levels. As everyone in Second Life seems to be either a blogger or a journalist, it was a natural place to get the world to hear this message.

Adventure Ecology educated people about the potential dangers of rising sea levels ‘in world’ during the flood. The shocked residents started many conversations about this climate crisis.

Footage and pictures of the event were instantly picked up by mainstream, green and marketing press and also blogs. Many Second Life residents also blogged about the flood and posted their own pictures on the internet - the climate crisis message has spread to 18 million people in the real world.

Whilst costing nothing to produce or run, this event led to Adventure Ecology experiencing a 54% increase in site traffic.

Most people pay for media. We bought ours with a powerful idea that got talked about.

Nominated by Miss Joanne Griffiths, 29 May 2007

Great use of Second Life for a really good cause.

Submitted by Kate Clough, 29 May 2007

i love it ... this should win

Submitted by David, 29 May 2007

A good way to get more people talking about the climate crisis and an innovative way to educate us all on the issues and solutions

Submitted by Katie, 30 May 2007

Since 2002 BANG has established 4 community radio projects and delivered many projects across London. The organisation’s approach is to use media and music to engage participants into activities that develop their technical and personal skills. BANG has provided educational and training activities to approximately 2000 people since its inception. Through Life FM and SKFM, community radio stations in Brent, BANG provides training, personal and professional development, volunteering and broadcasting opportunities to over 300 young people ( aged 8 and upwards) and adults each year from some of the most disadvantaged communities in the UK. BANG uses music and media to engage its beneficiaries and delivers quality services.

• Work to include young people from refugee and asylum seeker backgrounds into learning activities

• Delivery of a project in partnership with local primary schools to introduce children to new media. Participants were taught how to record and edit sounds/ music reflecting their communities

• Work with young people as part of sexual health to enable them to produce a radio show with the aim of raising awareness of sexual health issues to other young people

• Work with a young people’s disability group to deliver workshops in new media to disabled young people in Brent

• Ongoing courses and workshops for local young people in the borough during school hours (for those that are not in school or are unemployed), after school and during school holidays

• Employment of and developing young people as peer educators to deliver workshops to other young people

Participants are involved in the planning and management of all services. BANG has contributed greatly to regeneration in Brent and plans to expand existing learning activities in partnership with other providers.

Nominated by Ms Jennifer Ogole, 08 April 2007

With 200 plus countries on the site, worldinfozone provides a well researched and well presented user friendly knowledge base for students and the general public.

Submitted by Sally Craig, 27 May 2007

Ready to Learn takes peer-topeer menotring into online. It's designed to give confidence to anyone who is thinking of going back to learning. Having real-life examples shows potential learners what's possible. They can see that they are not alone and that others share exactly the same fears and concerns as they do...and have overcome them and felt the benefit.

Nominated by Mike Flood Page, 30 May 2007

31 May 2007

the history of pirate radio is a legend of history in radio

chris rowland not only goe sback to the days of radio he plays jingles and ads from that period as well as music from the era

link ups with radio caroline and keith skules at the bbc

mean others also think this is a great show

we nominate

Nominated by linda, 20 May 2007

chri tells it like it is good or bad it looks like he has had a long run without recognition for what he does

he has the sexiest voice on radio and he looks good on the web cam

Nominated by teresa hammersley, 27 May 2007

i think hes fab

pirate radio

Submitted by sarah, 20 May 2007

a great show

different t anything else on radio

Submitted by john, 20 May 2007

The weirdBeard-Chris Rowland delivers a great show on community radio BRFM. His show covers sixties music along with jingles and ads from that era from pirate radio.

Submitted by Lesley, 20 May 2007

What a great show that Chris Rowlands delivers. He plays the jingles and ads from Radio Caroline and pirate radio. His knowledge of that era is great and that comes across in his show.

Submitted by John, 20 May 2007

Its good to hear some real music and not all that bang bang stuff,

NICE ONE BROTHER

Submitted by the old sea dog, 31 May 2007

this person has made the station the local s very own and the team is ran by voluntters who proveide a unique service 24 7 to the isle of sheepey

Nominated by lillian gill, 10 April 2007

brfm is a community radio station in kent run by volunteers

a new kind of radio 3rd tier which impacts on social gain.

the brfm training scheme which also is supported by kent county council rurual revival project gives the public a chance to learn radio skills and production using latest gadgets and at the end of it become a presenter as the course result means they produce/present ther eown show as a grand finalee of the course

school pupils unemployed to disabled people all take part

it is the mayor of swales charity for the coming year

dan bransby who is also a volunteer presetner looks after and gets these people through it

it realy is a team building execise and we use english it maths as our education which taps in to the current school curriculm.

dan bransby deserves this award.

as new fresh and a new education.

Nominated by danny lawrence, 19 May 2007

gr8 local

Submitted by dean, 10 April 2007

i listern on line in yorkshire even won a contest.give them award hard won brilliant.

Submitted by colin revell, 21 April 2007

Too much music and not enough content on the station.

Don't think it deserves any award.

Submitted by Craig, 23 April 2007

the station is full of content you obvious dont listen enough

i think the community training is the best and this station deserves an award

Submitted by jenny, 29 April 2007

i have been involved in traiing scheme wa sout of work 10 years

it gave me a purpose in life

i also found a job via there job search

as a local station it does a lot for the opeople of the area

anybody who provides a service like this deserves an award

Submitted by dean, 29 April 2007

http://www.kent.police.uk/Your%20Area/Mid%20Kent/Mid_Kent_ne...

Submitted by sarah below link says it all, 29 April 2007

BRFM is a fantastic station. The presenters care about their community and when compared with other local stations BRFM really does stand out. The quailty is top notch and the specialist shows that they put on really aid the local groups within the community.

Submitted by Dave, 09 May 2007

BRFM is growing its popularity every day! The whole day is full with a variety of music and entertainment. BRFM are also giving the locals there own chance to become a radio presenter in there week course every month.

Submitted by Michael Woodhouse, 12 May 2007

We love Dan Bransby 4-7 weekdays, he makes it worthwhile tuning in every day, plays great music to get you bobbing, sounds friendly and you have a laugh listening to his show.

Submitted by JK, 17 May 2007

I agree, I think there's way too much music on this station, and when they are discussing something it easily leads to waffle. Don't think this deserves a nomination.

Submitted by Brit B., 22 May 2007

this station is for all and it takes a lot of work by a lot of good people who are voluntters not big guns like some stations so dont put it down help out if you think you can do it i hope brfm get an award fun radio is back good luck

Submitted by mk, 28 May 2007

I don't think the station is very good atall.

I think it's just a load of ego maniacs mascarading as a "community radio station.

There is nothing of any quality and when you think of other people volunteering for much worth while causes they deserve an award of this type.

Submitted by Sam Thomas, 29 May 2007

i disagree sam with your comments

do you actualy live in the area

this message board was set up as to why it should recive an award not y it shouldnt

iam an avid listener

the station is no where near ego

and if you listened

are you calling us listeners egos?

seeing its the bloody listeners that are making the shows

Submitted by jim, 30 May 2007

i think the people with the negative comments are the jealous lot!

lets face it people have notihng better to do than to slag something off that is a success

i love brfm and your find most people on here do

Submitted by hayley, 30 May 2007

Anything which is education based is a bonus in my mind

24 May 2007

This is a unique use of DVD technology and has been brought about almost entirely by one person's dedication and hard work (not to mention most of her money!). The DVDs produced are now available nationally through may retail outlets and online from major e-commerce outlets like Amazon, Play.com, etc.

Nominated by Ian Smith, 25 May 2007

WhenI was studying for my A levels I wish there had been something as helpful as these DVDs. You can just sit and let them guide you through the subject of your choice. Ms Sandifer is to be commended.

Submitted by Charlotte Brown, 30 May 2007

Childnet’s latest educational CD-ROM Know IT All for Parents is a multimedia approach to helping parents better support their children’s positive and safe use of the internet. Originally Commissioned by the Department for Education and Skills as part of the Government’s Computers for Pupils initiative, it was made available to 100,000 of England’s most deprived families. However following demand from schools the DFES decided to make it available free of charge to all state maintained schools in England. Schools ordered 50,000 copies on the first day it became available. PC WORLD are the first company to commit to making the CD-ROM available to its customers free of charge. Know IT All for Parents will be made available in the stores and preloaded on computers aimed at families.

In producing the interactive CD-ROM Childnet consulted with a wide range of parents who said that their preferred way of receiving internet safety information was by people or TV rather than websites. This is why the CD-ROM makes extensive and innovative use of video, a number of presenters deliver the information and explain how to navigate around.

The content is organised by themes which relate to family life; for example shopping, finding things out, staying in touch and includes material produced by young people themselves, and an Activity Centre with quizzes which encourages parents and children to work together. To make the content as accessible as possible, the Quick overview section has been translated into Arabic, Bengali, Gujarati, Polish, Mandarin, Punjabi, Urdu and British Sign Language.

Although the material includes video, there is a full text-only version for viewers for people who use a text reader. The entire content of the resource available online at www.childnet-int.org/kia.

Parmjit Dhanda, MP, Minister for Children, Young People and Families, welcomed the launch of Know IT All for Parents by saying, "I am delighted with this new resource.

Nominated by Stephen Carrick-Davies, 29 May 2007

We have now had over 120,000 orders from schools in the first 2 weeks and requests from other countries to link to the language sections.

Submitted by Stephen Carrick-Davies, 01 June 2007

GOSH should win an award for developing a unique and age-appropriate interactive resource for users of all ages that supports the diverse health needs of children in an engaging, supportive and child-friendly way.

Supporting children in hospital:

In the UK approximately 1.7 million children are admitted to hospital each year. CFfH exists as the only UK hospital resource that directly supports children through ‘the hospital experience’, and fills a niche in the UK market in the provision of child-centred health and hospital information that is both safe and reliable.

Evidenced-based resource:

Research and direct engagement with young people underpins the site’s development to ensure its continuing relevance and appeal. During 2006 over 500 children aged 7 – 18 were consulted with to gain their views of the ‘teens’ and ‘kids’ sections. In response to research feedback, CFfH has introduced several fun interactive elements including educational health quizzes, an interactive body tour and a sound-enhanced features.

Educational peer support:

The CFfH video diaries within the teens section provide young people with an excellent platform to educate others about living with a condition and hospital life. They can also be used as a tool by clinicians to help dispel some of the myths and fears associated with a stay in hospital.

Championing children’s health:

CFfH also sees ‘health’ in the broadest terms and deserves recognition for supporting the government’s public health agenda for children by developing online health campaigns and in-depth ‘healthy eating’ sections within the teens and kids sites in response to mounting concerns about childhood obesity.

Confidential expert advice:

During 2006, 265 clinically approved replies were posted on the site in response to health enquiries from young people with general health and hospital related concerns. These were mostly submitted to the ‘Dear Doc’ and ‘Girls only’ and ‘Boys only’ sections of the teens area of the website. The number of website monthly page visit has also been steadily increasing, rising from 40,000 in May 2006 to 60,000 in March 2007. A recent analysis of CFfH enquiries revealed that 85 percent of all messages posted anonymously to the site seeking confidential health advice came from young people aged 18 and under, supporting the need for CFfH.

Given the established concerns over the accuracy of health information and Internet safety, GOSH deserves recognition for developing a trusted resource that young people can turn to for reassuring and credible expert health advice and peer support.

Quotes from users:

“If I had any health problems I would just come here” Girl, 16

“It is an interesting website and when I am in hospital this website explains what I am having done to me in a simpler way than the doctors” Girl, 11

“It's interesting helpful and fun.” Boy, 11

“You can learn loads and have fun at the same time” Girl, 12

24 May 2007

Ontrack has been developed as a nationwide web-based beneficiary monitoring system, for the independent training sector, that will standardise monitoring practice and avoid double counting of users.

Ontrack assists in the tracking of progress, measuring impact and evaluation and provides capacity building and quality assurance, facilitate partnership working and good financial management.

CCC believe that Ontrack is worthy of an award on many counts. CCC developed a user-centred methodology, with 'Moodle' software through which students can access tailored learning materials, discussion groups and e-mentoring services from any computer with internet access. Ontrack features a media archive and an area to showcase new films by emerging film-makers.

CCC's mission is to deliver the best creative media training for talented individuals who would not otherwise have access. Many of CCC's core services exist as comprehensive stepping-stones into employment or training progressions, with over 55% of trainees being female, and 80% of trainees coming from Black, Asian or minority ethnic backgrounds.

Since its foundation in 1982, CCC has delivered structured film-making, broadcast, animation, music technology and web-building training with tailored one-to-one mentoring to thousands of under-represented people from across London. In the last three years alone, over 400 adults have improved access to work, further education or career development in the creative industries through CCC programmes.

Through the design of a robust and accessible monitoring resource to innovative training programmes for hard-to-reach young people and under-represented adults, CCC continues to find new ways to achieve its goals and to improve the technology available to the voluntary sector.

Nominated by Richard Freeman, 11 April 2007

29 May 2007

Create-A-Scape is a free and powerful personalised learning tool that supports learning across the curriculum, on any subject, for any age group and in any location. The website, which provides everything that is needed (except for hardware), offers a set of resources for learners and teachers to create their own learning experiences – known as ‘mediascapes’. These personalised learning experiences, or mediascapes, take the form of a 2-D map enhanced with location-sensitive sounds, images and video – which can subsequently be explored in the outside world. Users can create a range of experiences from a mystery tour to an art installation – the only constraint is imagination.

Benefits

• Engaging and stimulating learning

• Can be used across a range of subjects or to support a range of cross-curricular skills

• Enables young people and teachers to design a learning experience relevant to them

• Supports team work

• Enables teachers and young people to collaborate

• Encourages learners to engage with their surroundings and local community

• Supports learners’ creativity

• It’s freely available.

All that is required is an internet-enabled PC, a PDA handheld computer and the enthusiasm to explore the outdoors. The website contains the mediascape toolkit, a planning guide, step-by-step guides on how to use Create-A-Scape, online help and examples of how others have used this resource.

Create-A-Scape offers a unique approach because each time it’s used; students undertake an active and creative endeavour that results in the creation of new and original learning experiences and resources. The process of making a mediascape promotes the engagement of learners in both the design and content, as well as in the technical processes required to complete a mediascape.

Since September 2006 the site has received over 35,000 visits by over 2,000 unique users per month.

08 May 2007

great site, really inspiring for doing creative things with your PDAs

Submitted by erica mitchell, 15 May 2007

Genuinely innovative, looks like a neat idea that learners will love. Futurelab's experimentation with new media benefits all educators.

Submitted by Nick, 17 May 2007

The e-Learning Foundation, established in 2001, has been working tirelessly to reduce the effect of this “Digital Divide” by consulting with schools, parents and stakeholders to ensure that all children have access to technology learning resources that, when and where they need them, both at home and at school.

Most of us take technology for granted. It is part of our daily lives - how we work, learn and communicate with each other. But 2.5 million of the most disadvantaged schoolchildren in the UK are still living on the edge of our digital society with no home access to a computer and the Internet.

Computer skills can help these children avoid poverty in the future. Without action the UK will increasingly become polarised between the e-included and the e-excluded.

The Government understand the detrimental impact of the digital divide. It has created a Ministerial Task Force to draw up a plan to provide all school age children with IT access.

Jim Knight, the Minister for State, has commended the e-Learning Foundation on the work it has done to close the digital divide and provide home access to deprived areas. The Government has invited the e-Learning Foundation to spearhead the Third Sector on the Task Force.

The e-Learning Foundation beat off stiff competition to become a chosen charity for the DSGi Group’s ‘Switched on Communities’ project, a three year community investment program to support disadvantaged groups through the provision of technology and training.

35,000 children in the UK have so far benefited from £8 million worth of grants provided by the e-Learning Foundation to set up sustainable projects at 200 schools around the UK.

Nominated by J Howells, 12 April 2007

clear and informative site stating principles and outlining operations. easy to move around and find information

Submitted by andrea, 14 April 2007

Easy to understand site, which clearly represents a valuable cause.

Submitted by David, 14 April 2007

An organisation that does a valuable job in helping disadvantaged children to gain the technological skills they need to learn and to gain employment in later life. And it has a great website!

Submitted by Rachael, 22 April 2007

1. Elgg represents a critical development in educational software. Origionally designed to support learner-centered e-portfolio's, Elgg has functioned as the only working prototype of a Personal Learning Environment - an important conceptual development in supporting learners, which the platform has enabled to practical development of (google PLE or personal learning environment). The team have also been involved in supporting the use of Open ID and Elgg is just about the only software which recognises and works with learners distributed learning practices and identities. The Curverider team have shown passion and dedication in their commitment to improving the internet based tools available to learners - not only is the platform Open Source, it's development has not recived direct or substantial funding from either education or the private sector.

Nominated by Josie Fraser, 19 May 2007

It is great to see Dave and Ben receive some long overdue recognition for their work

Submitted by Graham Attwell, 19 May 2007

I couldn't agree more - these guys are real visionaries and absolutely deserve recognition for their work on Elgg and the emerging Explode which has the potential to radically change the face of social networks.

Submitted by Stan Stanier, 19 May 2007

I fully agree - it's incredibly useful - while I still see it as an Educational Tool, it's also good to see something moving from an exclusively education field to a more general one.

Submitted by Emma Duke-Williams, 19 May 2007

All power to Dave and Ben. They so much deserve recognition. Elgg has begun to transform the way we work at my University and has inspired exciting and innovative thinking about the use of e-portfolios, social networking and personal learning environments.

Submitted by Terry Wassall, 19 May 2007

Elgg is not only suited to formal educational settings. We are using it on a social networking project for Women in IT

Submitted by Frances Bell, 24 May 2007

Anyone who has been medically diagnosed with coeliac disease can join the Charity. It is free to join. There are around 70,000 members and 600 new members joining every month. They also provide a free dietetic and food helpline for people struggling with diagnosis and management of their condition. In addition, they are able to provide helpful leaflets and books.

Our 96 voluntary groups around the UK provide help to the newly diagnosed locally, as well as supporting existing members and undertaking national campaigns.

eXG is the monthly electronic Crossed Grain communication. eXG is mailed to over 29,000 subscribers, not just members of Coeliac UK, but also to people with a business, professional or personal interest in the condition and gluten-free generally.

Each month, eXG features the top news stories, a medical update and other topics of interest to the gluten-free community.

Advertising opportunities

eXG is an effective advertising medium for all sorts of products, services and events. A recent advert for a gluten-free beer festival saw additional click-throughs to the festival website and helped to increase ticket sales as a result.

eXG is an invaluable source of educational material and information is a life-life to those who feel isolated as a result of having this life-long,life-changing condition.

Nominated by Janet Foster, 23 March 2007

The Education Award should go to Films for Learning as it is innovative in more than just its use of digital video. Teachers become clients, commissioning students as film companies to make films that will be of direct use to the teachers in the classroom. This approach gives the films double learning value, creating new learning experiences for the students who make the films and the students who then view them. The client/film company relationship has the potential to generate genuine collaboration between the teacher and student, bringing a freshness of vision to the subject that has potential to focus students watching the films (potentially more than those which are slick and professionally produced). Equipment and resources to make ‘Films for Learning’ need not be expensive. Most of the work undertaken over the past two years has been with the cheapest equipment available and software which is free with Microsoft and Apple Mac operating systems.

The project has been identified as connecting science to the ‘real world’ in NESTA’s research report ‘Real Science’. Presentations on Films for Learning have been given at BETT, Leading Edge Conferences, Specialist Schools and Academies Trust’s Science and ICT Conferences, Diverse 2006, The National Science Learning Centres and Ecsite-UK. Films for Learning has also worked in partnership with the Dream Ireland project in Belfast which has worked with six secondary schools in the province. Films for Learning has also run a number of workshops for teachers in the South and South West at the Thomas Hardye School. This term we are delivering courses for teachers at the South West Science Learning Centre and a three day workshop for students from 10 schools jointly with Planet Science’s SciCast and Science Made Simple.

Films for Learning is managed and run by teachers.

Nominated by Mark Richardson, 24 May 2007

This is a novel and unique project, which is providing both modern resources that are free and engaging, and also a platform for students to work towards showcasing their projects.

Nominated by Ian Harris, 28 May 2007

This is a really good project. Lots of films for teachers to use in lessons. Well worth a visit and a prize.

Submitted by Jeb Ross, 25 May 2007

I second that. What a great creative approach to learning!

Submitted by Chris, 28 May 2007

Having worked with Mark & Thomas Hardye School on the set up of the Films for Learning website, I think the site is a rich & engaging resource for all teachers & students - whether they simply want to view a particularly tricky demo or whether they want to become a regular expert contributor to the collection of films.

Submitted by Katherine, 29 May 2007

One of the most innovative approaches to transforming learning within the classroom for both teachers and students that I have come across. Films for Learning is an excellent example of how vision and aspiration can help make learning fun, as well as helping change the way we should think about education.

Submitted by Gary McCausland, 29 May 2007

Learning how it should be! Films for learning takes skills from across the curriculum to enhance learning in the making of the films and the viewing of the films. Well done. Keep up the good work.

Submitted by Francis Charters, 29 May 2007

Films for learning hits the spot for providing young people with a creative learning experience. Add to this the WEB 2.0, User Generated Content approach and you get a cutting edge activity that is as exciting and fun as it is educational. What a mix!

Submitted by Paul Foster, 29 May 2007

Allowing children and educators from different locations and backgrounds to learn from one another is a great achievement. It's a creative use of technology to aid learning!

Submitted by Ginger Hernandez, 29 May 2007

An excellent project in which students and teachers work collaboratively in production of fun, educational films that can be used in the classroom. Education for students by students!

Submitted by Christine Drew, 29 May 2007

This excellent project puts children and young people at the centre of their learning journey. It is particularly strong in engaging and motivating boys learning.

Submitted by David Powell, 30 May 2007

Futurelab has established itself as the leading organisation for independent research and advice on games for learning. The “Teaching with Games” research project provides practical and informed evidence of the implications and potential use of games in school, and an informed strategy for educational development requirements. The project comprised Ipsos MORI surveys of students’ and teachers’ attitudes to the use of games, as well as case studies of teachers in secondary schools using off-the-shelf games The Sims 2 (EA), Knights of Honour (distributed by EA) and RollerCoaster Tycoon® 3 (Atari) in formal classroom time. This project has sparked debate worldwide including media coverage, from the BBC News to the front page of the TES. Electronic Arts and Ubisoft now recognise education as a new market opportunity alongside their traditional business.

Futurelab has produced a wealth of literature including the “Games and Learning” handbook examining the developments in the use of computer games for learning. It offers practical recommendations for teachers interested in implementing games-based activities in schools, and for games developers producing titles for learners. The “Literature Review in Games and Learning” provides an introduction to current thinking about the role of computer games in supporting children's learning inside and out of school.

Futurelab is also engaged in developing innovative prototype games and other digital resources for learning. “Space Mission: Ice Moon”, developed with the National Space Centre, allows pupils to role play in an ‘Emergency Response Team’ on Earth as a disaster occurs in space. Futurelab’s “Racing Academy” is a prototype car-racing computer game, where students learn from each other about complex engineering and physics principles. “Newtoon” is a mobile phone and web activity which aims to embed physics learning in mobile gaming. It enables young people to author, play, edit and share fast-paced microgames for their mobile phones.

08 May 2007

Futurelab is the first UK lab to successfully bridge academia, industry and policy to support innovation and effect change on a wide scale in the education sector. In April 2006, Futurelab became an independent not-for-profit organisation, spinning out from NESTA to provide more scope to raise funds for its work and greater flexibility in meeting the needs of its various stakeholders. The organisation is governed by a Board of Trustees, Chaired by Lord David Puttnam.

Recent Futurelab projects:

• Ground-breaking, £1 million research programme with Microsoft, called Enquiring Minds. This project aims to develop the tools and resources that educators require to enable children to become researchers and owners of their own learning.

• Teaching with Games – an innovative research programme with Electronic Arts that offers teachers the training, tools and support materials to teach with computer games.

• Best-selling international educational software product, MediaStage, co-developed with Immersive Education and Heinemann, which won a BETT Educational Technology Award in January 2006.

• Highly innovative education software product, Moovl, which exemplifies the Futurelab approach of drawing on the expertise of the creative industries to develop educational products.

• Create-A-Scape (www.createascape.org.uk), a free resource for schools that combines hands-on activity with state-of-the-art mobile technology to support learning.

• Mission Builder – a toolkit which enables teachers to use video-conferencing facilities and interactive materials to help pupils use and develop a whole range of skills to conquer a set mission.

Futurelab works with a range of commercial organisations and academic institutes internationally including through a formal collaboration with the Singapore Infocomm Development Agency. People with innovative ideas for learning tools will be able to seek funding from Futurelab as well as a route to market worldwide. This has already proved successful for Create-a-Scape in Singapore.

25 May 2007

I think this is an exciting initiative that will put creativity and fun into lessons. It will appeal to a variety of abilities and hopefully ensure students are 'turned onto learning'! I've observed previously badly behaved students completing appropriate tasks if they're given the correct stimuli. Everyone wins then! I’d certainly appreciate the opportunity to participate in forward thinking practices like this!

Submitted by Julie Cosgrove, 15 May 2007

This is a very interesting project that uses the interacivity of the web to bring people and images together from all over the UK- and even beyond. By collecting images, people are able to get an idea of what everywhere looks like, and the discussions let them talk about it from wherever they are.

12 April 2007

Communicating with someone who has been in your shoes is a great asset, no matter who or where you are. It doesn't substitute for professional advice, family or friends, but sometimes it's exactly what you need. But social, geographic and emotional barriers can make it hard to find that someone. Horsesmouth breaks down the barriers, allowing people all over the UK to come together anonymously and confidentially, to share life experiences.

18 May 2007

The Hunters Hill Technology College website and intranet are examples of innovative use of tecnology to promote greater access and communicdation between all stakeholders 9tudents, Parents, Carers, Teachers, Governors and Community Users). It uses the state of art servers and software applications to promote cohesion.

Nominated by Ian Black, 10 May 2007

hi my name is amy skidmore i go to hunters hill tecnlogy college well done for the award

Submitted by amy, 29 May 2007

Intuitive Media is one of the very few companies providing an online environment for children which is both fun and educational. Above all, professional mediators and strict validation procedures mean that members are protected while they are in the community. GoldStarCafe provides a positive experience of social networking and enables children to gain confidence in ICT skills, Literacy, Communication, Citizenship and more. Much of the learning is informal and takes place at home – after school and at weekends – and children are keen to support each other’s learning. Peer mentoring is common; children use the forums to receive feedback on stories they are writing, and the ‘Vote for your Site of the Week’ forum (to find the ‘best’ home page in GoldStarCafe each week) is filled with positive comments about other children’s multimedia home pages.

GoldStarCafe has harnessed the best opportunities the Internet has to offer for learning and engaging and has maximized the potential for this by adding the much-needed element of safety. GoldStarCafe is providing a space where children are becoming better citizens by engaging positively with other children, developing their ICT skills beyond the demands of the classroom, and taking ownership of their own learning by managing clubs, webrings and zines (online magazines) in their own time.

The team behind GoldStarCafe is committed to the safety of its members and it is clear to see that the respect shown to the members by the Mediation staff is reciprocated. We hear so much these days about disaffected young people with no desire to learn – but these children are proving that isn’t the case. Teenagers from all socioeconomic and geographical backgrounds come together to make friends, learn about each other and the world around them, and inspire each other – and themselves – to be the best person they can be.

Nominated by Colette Cotton, 31 May 2007

This is possibly the best site on our national game on the internet. James has a real facility for describing what he thinks and feels about the game. He uses youtube wonderfully- and often illustrates things like the first creation of film alongside his football interest. He is the very definition of what a blog should be about. He should win because of all of these things- he should also win because it would promote his blog- its quite young but it deserves to be one of the top blogs in the United Kingdom.

Nominated by Henry Midgley, 17 April 2007

I have known the developer team for Karoshi for many years at my school now. They work for no financial gain and are all in full time employment. But they give up their free time and money to create this software for schools. Through their efforts and the collaboration of others in the community they have created a system that is more than capable of competing with commercial alternatives that are available, but Karoshi remains open-source and available to all to use with no charge.

There have been a large number of people adopting Karoshi in their schools due to the numerous financial benefits. There has even been schools in Africa who have used Karoshi as their budget is limited but still wish to provide students with every opportunity in the world.

Although the team is small they are always open to suggestions for new features and improvements for Karoshi and are constantly working endless hours to improve their system for the benefit of all those that use it, and those who will use it in the future!

Nominated by daniel knox, 25 April 2007

I also second that comment by Daniel, the team of Karoshi are always there to help with any problem, and work incredibly hard even though they have a small team. Go Karoshi!!

Submitted by Henry, 26 April 2007

We are the school in Africa, Zambia who are using the Karoshi system. I recommend it and hand out CD to any other potential users. It is a great system for schools and can be scaled up or down depending on the number of users. We are running webmail on our system and also all our pupils have their own email addresses. We wanted to move to a domain system and linux was the only way to go. I read about Karoshi in the Linux format magazine and have tried to support it ever since. The small team are always ready with advice and are open to suggestions on the forum. I believe the team deserve the award.

Submitted by Chengelo, 06 May 2007

Absolutely, I also know some of the team and how hard working they all are. Their persistence and development has been continuing for quite some time now and it is being seen by a lot of people within the education sector as the answer for them. There is a very wide variety of services provided by the Karoshi project and security is looked on as quite an important part of the whole system.

The fact that it is free and will remain to be is a credit to the team, which has to put it at the top of its market sector. It is reliable and well tested and has the support of its users and the Karoshi community alike. It is a system that is being used in many different countries all over the world, with more and more joining constantly.

You must visit the Karoshi home page to see just how much Karoshi provides, and the list is always increasing.

Well done Karoshi Community

Submitted by Mark, 12 May 2007

The future is Bright, the future is Karoshi

Submitted by Anonamous, 14 May 2007

For innovative contribution to education through new media

17 May 2007

This site is designed to provide a community network and is based on the sound premise that much good information for parents comes from other parents. You will also find product reviews and a wealth of parenting advice.

Mumsnet is the highly successful site run by parents for parents, sharing know-how on the net.

Mumsnet excels at putting people in touch with each other so that they can share their good and bad times together.

14 May 2007

really good informative website. great for parents with up to date info covering a wide range of topics

Nominated by lucy, 18 May 2007

This website should win because it s a unique parenting website,no fluffiness and over moderating.Encourages great debate by having really interesting web chats with the likes of David Cameron .The mothers who run it are like friends and the community atmosphere is unrivalled.

Truly deserving of recognition.

Nominated by polly, 25 May 2007

Mumsnet is an online godsend - I've logged onto the talk section and found friendship and a true community, with members helping one another through everything from a sickly child to a death in the family to crises of confidence.

Nominated by SJ Jones, 31 May 2007

Mumsnet is everything you'd want from a parenting website. The information is easy to find; there are great competitions & it's fun as well!

Submitted by Karen Douglas-Bhanot, 17 May 2007

gives fab advice

keeps you up to date on things that happen in the news.

Submitted by Donna French, 17 May 2007

Mumsnet is a lifeline of information, compassion and humour. It is invaluable.

Submitted by Alacoque Meehan, 17 May 2007

A fantastic site for anything parenting-related (and much more!). Informative, funny, and a great forum for airing views and discussing whatever is on your mind.

Submitted by Ursula Adams, 17 May 2007

Mumsnet is a fabulous resource for supporting parents through conception, pregnancy to teenage and beyond. It always gives access to someone who knows the answer to your parenting questions.....and some of the discussion boards are most amusing !

Submitted by Stephanie Brushfield, 17 May 2007

Mumsnet has been a lifeline for me - having a new baby and living in a new city. Having a virtual group of "friends" on the message boards has kept me positive and sane!

Submitted by rachel farrier, 17 May 2007

A massive lifeline for me. It gives me advice and support whenever it is needed.

Submitted by Nicola Foote, 17 May 2007

Like a New-Best-Friend, funny, wise, informative, crucial to Mums at every stage, everywhere.

Submitted by Ellie Smith, 17 May 2007

mumsnet has my vote.

Submitted by Helen Eden, 17 May 2007

The only organisation that stands up to YOU KNOW WHO

Submitted by Sarah Johnson, 17 May 2007

Just fab. Has made me laugh and cry, provided invaluable advice without Health Visitor style finger wagging and most importantly helps keep you sane!

Submitted by Fiona Callister, 17 May 2007

Mumsnet is the best - full of valuable information/different viewpoints from real, experienced parents; it can be hilarious or serious, I have recommended it to scores of people, all of whom have loved it as much as myself. Go Mumsnet!

Submitted by Lorraine Craig, 17 May 2007

Simply The Best!

Submitted by Tasha Lee, 17 May 2007

Mumsnet is...Company when you're lonely, comfort when you're sad, support when you need it, hilarious when you want a laugh, an agony aunt when you need advice, a teacher when you need help with the kids' homework, a shoulder to cry on, a world-news update, a product review centre, it's just fan-bloody-tastic. You can't beat it.

Submitted by Zoe, 18 May 2007

Mumsnet is a lifeline of advice to parents. Ask any question whether child related or not and someone will be onhand to answer you.

It can offer comfort, humour and advice and should be recommended to all new mums at their first ante-natal appointment.

Submitted by Pauline Veitch, 18 May 2007

Mumsnet is a lifeline for parents whether they're looking for company, support or just some light relief and the infamous 'Am I Being Unreasonable' threads can really help to get things in perspective.

Submitted by Shirley MacDonald, 18 May 2007

Mumsnet tells you everything you need to know about parenting and everything to do with it, in palatable bite-size chunks. If you have children or are even thinking about having children, you need look no further.

Submitted by Cam, 18 May 2007

Being able to read mumsnet and post on it is like having a friend who is always available, day and night, who knows everything there is to know about parenting and any other subject you wish to name, is witty and funny and really cares about you. And when you haven't got time to talk to her for a couple of days, she isn't offended in the slightest.

Submitted by Jan Quinn, 18 May 2007

I love Mumsnet. its a life line for me in my Rural Idyll. I often wished for a group of friends with young children to swap stories and advice with and there they all are on line.

Submitted by christina cross, 18 May 2007

I\'m still finding mumsnet and endless source of information, support and sanity after 8 years of parenting. Love the new local pages they\'ve introduced - already used to great effect.

Submitted by Mel Dixon, 18 May 2007

Brilliant - someone out there has an answer, some comfort,some humour to help you cope wtih everything in world of parenting. They say the family network and support system has disappeared - but Mumsnet has made it larger and more perful than ever

Submitted by Jo, 18 May 2007

as a mum of five i thought i knew it all til i got mumsnet! - a fabulous resource

Submitted by catherine curtis, 18 May 2007

Mumsnet was an excellent initiative and has provided much support and information to many. It has my vote!

Submitted by Kirsten, 18 May 2007

mumsnet has proven invaluable to me. I use it all the time and couldn't imagin how I would have got through the first few months with my twins without it. It has provided comfort, support, encouragement and humour, and much more besides. A wonderful organisation.

Submitted by claire tamblyn, 18 May 2007

Despite the name, it's not just for Mums! I'm a Dad and the site is an invaluable source of info for all parents. And it makes you laugh as well!

Submitted by Mark Harknett, 18 May 2007

As another Dad who regularly uses Mumsnet, it has been a huge source of advice, information and general support for our family - and it is great to be able to share your experience of being a parent of three with new parents too! Above all, it feels like a community, sharing people's news, triumphs and tragedies together. Cannot rate it too highly!

Submitted by Steve Fouch, 18 May 2007

Mumsnet is a great source of information for all Mums - whether new or not!

Submitted by Vikki, 18 May 2007

A fabulous resource my son is grown up now but I still look at it and sometimes join in on topics where I have experience, I only wish it had been there when my son was tiny.

Submitted by Amanda van der Straaten, 18 May 2007

As a first time mum I would be lost without Mumsnet.

Submitted by Clare Pritchard, 18 May 2007

Mumsnet is the first place I go with ny questions abour Parenting and many other issues. There is always someone with an answer or advice and plenty of support too. I learn something new from Mumsnet most days!

Submitted by Ellen Kirkby, 18 May 2007

A very useful and informative organisation, I look forward to the mailings!

Submitted by Sue Payne, 18 May 2007

More than education or entertainment, mumsnet is a site that makes a difference to the lives of parents and their children every day.

Submitted by Elizabeth, 18 May 2007

A life line and a source of entertainment and education.

Submitted by Kate, 18 May 2007

Informative and feisty website

Submitted by Claire, 18 May 2007

A superb resource and reference point - instant access to a wealth of knowledge and on-line support across all aspects of parenting.

Submitted by Elizabeth Cook, 18 May 2007

Mumsnet is simply the most reassuring, funny, compassionate, and well-informed parenting website out there. When you're a new mum, home alone with a baby, what could be more reassuring than the online voices of hundreds of other mums ready with advice and support? It really helped me a great deal through some difficult times and also makes me laugh on a regular basis. Absolutely vital.

Submitted by Sarah Brooks, 18 May 2007

Wonderful site, don't know where I'd be without it. Informative and full of invaluable advice from other parents, but maintains a tongue in cheek tone too.

Submitted by Katy Heslop, 18 May 2007

Mumsnet is a fantastic site bursting with information and support for mums whatever their background. I have found it an invaluable resource.

Submitted by Jo, 18 May 2007

super site. source of information on anything that you could possibly need to know about parenting. Very educational and has added new words to my vocabulary!

Submitted by sam, 18 May 2007

mumsnet site is brilliant, i can always find out what i need to know quickly, great site great members.

Submitted by kath woods, 19 May 2007

Mumsnet is simply the best website for any parent with access to a PC! Beats the others (and there are many contenders to the crown) for information, consumer advice, debate and intelligent, sensitive advice. Stylish website design too!

Submitted by Frances, 19 May 2007

Mumsnet provides invaluable support to parents. Its advice is always realistic and practical.

Submitted by Lara Woolstencroft, 19 May 2007

Not 'just' about being a mum (or indeed a dad) but so much more, whatever you need advice on, be it breast feeding, reusable nappies,toddler tantrums, PND, bereavement, or what car to buy, why your washing machine is making an odd noise or which sort of banana is the most ethical purchase, Mumsnet will come up trumps

Submitted by Jessica James, 19 May 2007

No matter how obscure the question, a mumsnetter somewhere is logged on and has the answer

Submitted by Suzanne, 21 May 2007

Just the best!Helpful and informative, we need more like this

Submitted by Stefanie Kosky, 22 May 2007

I think that Mumsnet is a great answer to the slow deterioration of traditional family support. It's honest and informative; a wonderful guide when you're out there on your own learning how to be a mum. Whether you're just hitting a low patch and need some support or guidance from others, or want to research yet more expensive kit to buy, it's fanstastic!

Submitted by Rachel, 22 May 2007

I'm particularly fond of the review pages and I really welcome their e-mail service.

Submitted by Susan, 22 May 2007

A lifeline for parents not only for advice, but for somewhere to commiserate with, moan to and share fears and triumphs with, parents everywhere.

Submitted by Jackie Johnson, 22 May 2007

Recommend it all the time, interesting, informative and great fun.

Submitted by Christine Meddes, 23 May 2007

It is supposed to take a village to raise a child, and here is a virtual one. Mumsnet is a fantastic resource for a chat, some support or some serious advice on any aspect of parenting. It has made an invaluble contribution to my parenting skills (not an understatement!)

Submitted by Jacqui Penalver, 24 May 2007

Perfect site for new mums especially but all mums generally. recipies, chat, competitions, excellent weekly newsletter and more serious issues around all aspecs of partners, marriage, parenting, conception, birth, in laws.... i could go on but i\'m sure you get the picture. DESERVES RECOGNITION

Submitted by Micaela Doran, 24 May 2007

It really does deserve this nomination. Mumsnet has seen me and a group of friends right through from thin blue line to SATs and beyond. A community of parents share and discuss news stories, social issues and relevant links. It's a godsend - and very funny and warm with it

Submitted by Kate, 24 May 2007

A real online community, with support, advice, laughs and fights. Terrific people making a terrific site.

Submitted by Vix, 24 May 2007

The best website for Mums today. Style, food, days out as well as parenting make this a great all round site.

Submitted by Soupys Bat, 24 May 2007

Mumsnet is a lifeline for parents where the wit and intelligence of debate is always fierce, be it about breastfeeding or Gordon Brown. Crucial.

Submitted by ruth, 24 May 2007

Mumsnet is a well run, minimally moderated mixture of good advice, strong opinions, intelligent debate and friendly inane chat - just what every parent needs!

Submitted by Catherine, 24 May 2007

Altogether too addictive, Mumsnet is the world's largest virtual coffee morning/ladies' lunch/cocktails after dark and essential to daily life!

Submitted by Jane, 24 May 2007

Mumsnet is essential reading for anyone who has had or is going to have a baby

Submitted by Jenny Dilali, 24 May 2007

Mumsnet is all my best friends rolled into one.

Submitted by Louise, 24 May 2007

I wish there had been Mumsnet when mine were little, women mother better with the support of other women - and laugh louder.

Submitted by Ann, 24 May 2007

Mumsnet kept me sane, when everything seemed to be going wrong - then you realise everyone has the same problems. Thanks Mumsnet

Submitted by Kathy, 24 May 2007

mumsnet has been invaluable for me - from teh early days of pregnancy to the early days of parenthood. it has provided peer support and information to back up the medicalised approach. the positive listening ear can be the vital last piece of a complex jigsaw for us newbies to the parenting game.

Submitted by linda thompson, 24 May 2007

It is reassuring to know that you are not alone and gives you confidence to trust in yourself

Submitted by Lesley, 24 May 2007

Not having a mum myself, Mumsnet is the place I go first before anywhere else if I have a question or a problem to solve about being a mother. I would visit the chatboards there before I go to the GP, before the health visitor; well, before anything else. I work on the premise that someone else will know the answer or have dealt with the same issue. Totally and utterly the best mums' site on the web. Full stop.

Submitted by Rosie Hatton, 24 May 2007

the chat board is the fastest, funniest, well informed source of information on the world wide web

Submitted by Wads, 24 May 2007

I love mumsnet and couldn't live without it.

Submitted by Ella, 24 May 2007

a brilliant site for support and information as well as laughs and solidarity. It has been more useful to me than all my parenting books and the Health Visitors.

Submitted by Ruth, 24 May 2007

Informative, supportive and damn entertaining to boot.

Submitted by Char, 24 May 2007

Mumsnet is a fantastic site - entertaining and informative and with something for every mothering occasion. How did Mums ever survive without it?

Submitted by Claire, 24 May 2007

I found this site recently, and don't know how I previously lived without it!

Submitted by Lyndsay Cornell, 24 May 2007

Mumsnet tells it like it is and we're all the better for it! Mumsnet delivers thought provoking news and information with an infectious mix of wit and humor.

Submitted by Catherine du Toit, 24 May 2007

Mumsnet is invaluable to new parents, seasoned parents and grandparents alike! Its always the first place my new Mum daughter goes if she has a problem and I have also had great advice on being a grandparent from the Mums on board. Great Site.The Best!

Submitted by karen cutler, 24 May 2007

On occasions Mumsnet makes me laugh out loud in the office, a sure sign that all the intent concentration on my screen isn't work related

Submitted by K20, 24 May 2007

Mumsnet helped keep me sane and laughing during my pregnancy and has answered my many worried queries since having my son. It is an oracle of information and a source of endless wisdom and support.

Submitted by Sarah Howells, 24 May 2007

An invaluable resource for mothers, this site provides me with a wonderful balance of advice from all quarters, humour, and the reassurance that I am not alone in my parenting challenges. I wouldn`t be without it.

Submitted by Ruth Clarke, 25 May 2007

Mumsnet has proved invaluable to me.Whatever the question,someone will be able to answer,or have 'been there'.

I've also never laughed so much in my life at some of the things I've read on Mumsnet.Long may it continue.

Submitted by Kathryn Shorrock, 25 May 2007

Couldn't do without it! Laughs, gossip, sympathy, advice, opinions and a glimpse at other people's fascinating lives (from a safe distance) - all just a click away.

Submitted by Liv Barnes, 25 May 2007

This is my first pregnancy and it has brilliant in answering all the silly, obvious questions you do not want to ask - never mind the more practical side like 'which pram'? This sounds simple but trying shopping for one!

Submitted by Sally Humpage, 25 May 2007

Mumsnet has made me laugh and cry, count my blessings and curse my shortcomings. Being able to ask advice from people who are totally unconnected to you in real life gives a truly new and unbiased view on anything and everything. Being a new mum is so scary and mumsnetters are like lots of big sisters - there when you need support, but quick to tell you if they think you're wrong! I don't know where I'd be without it.

Submitted by Andrea, 25 May 2007

Fab Site - echo all the other comments

Submitted by Siobhan, 25 May 2007

Mumsnet is 'a nest of vipers' - I love it!

Submitted by MelF, 25 May 2007

Mumsnet has made me a more confident parent and woman.It is very addictive,even my husband and daughter like having a read.

Submitted by polly, 25 May 2007

Mumsnet is sometimes like a salon of exceptionally well informed and witty women, sometimes like a raucous hen party, sometimes like a huge posse of sisters and friends offering advice, sometimes like a bitchfight in a saloon bar. It is never twee and always entertaining and has for five years offered me sound advice, entertainment and food for thought.

Submitted by zuleika, 25 May 2007

It's informative and fun! The editors have a great sense of humour.

Submitted by Elnor, 25 May 2007

Mumsnet is the best parenting forum

Submitted by Liesel, 25 May 2007

Mumsnet is the most helpful parenting forum

Submitted by Liesel, 25 May 2007

Its a fantastic, supportive site, with a wealth of information, advice, and tips. The founders are always listening to members and making sure the members are happy with everything they do. You couldnt ask for more. It has been a lifesaver for me, and more literally so for others. Long live Mumsnet.

Submitted by Vicki, 25 May 2007

It is an amazing website filled with amazing people. It is not overly moderated, and free speech is key. Fantastic site.

Submitted by Vicki, 25 May 2007

Superb site. Wish I had found it before having my first child. The only piece of unsolicited advice I give to parents I meet is check out this site. Gives you exactly what you need when you need it, humour, advice, support, a place to blow of steam and allows you to help other parents back.

Submitted by Harriet, 25 May 2007

It has been a lifesaver for me answering questions from breastfeeding to nappy rash to behavioural problems to relationships! Mumsnet makes me laugh out loud and it makes me cry out loud too!

Submitted by Joanna Nervi, 25 May 2007

mn is amazing. words fail me.

Submitted by caity mcduncan, 26 May 2007

Fantastic, the site itself is informative, interesting, challenging and thought provoking. The girls at MNHQ are sensible, patient, hilarious and are very good at dancing on tables.

Submitted by Becka, 28 May 2007

A life line - where else can you go in the wee hours of the morning to get advice?

Submitted by Sandy, 28 May 2007

Just simply brilliant.

Submitted by Anne-Marie Balfour, 29 May 2007

I'm not even a Mum yet, I'm still trying to conceive but find Mumsnet to be shrewd, sisterly and screamingly funny.

It's proven to answer questions I couldn't find solutions to elsewhere. Truly an internet behemoth.

Submitted by SJ Jones, 31 May 2007

A fantastic site, holds info on anything you could wish for being a parent, and probably a few things you'd not thought about as well! Has saved my sanity on more than one occasion!

Submitted by Heather, 31 May 2007

I honestly think I'd be in the pit of depair if I hadn't found mumsnet. I have made some really great friends through it and had some brilliant advice

Submitted by Debbi Fouch, 31 May 2007

I only wished I had foun Mumsnet earlier (when I was pregnant with my 1st daughter) I have had some wonderful support when I miscarried then when I fell pregnant again it was great to have somewhere to share any worries/niggles and now my second daughter here great for practical advice

Submitted by Michelle Parks, 31 May 2007

A wonderful website in terms of content, but also well laid out and constructed, easy to use, and with consideration of the members comments and input as well. Also an ethical website which takes it social responsibilities seriously.

Submitted by Katherine, 31 May 2007

I think there is so much pressure on new parents to Get It Right. For me, Mumsnet rises above the static noise of all the scare stories, the reports and the Good Advice that the world can't help but give out to new mums. It is a voice of reason and the source of much-needed downtime and laughter. Being mum can be pretty lonely at times and the support that Mumsnet provides cannot be underestimated.

Submitted by Rachel Hammond, 31 May 2007

An astonishing pleasure, that no-one who doesn't wipe snot deserves to know about.

Submitted by Kate Williams (aka onebadmother), 01 June 2007

Wish I´d found mumsnet sooner, definately gets my vote.

Submitted by Sophie, 01 June 2007