A BLACKBURN deputy head teacher is aiming to make his school the most tech-savvy in East Lancashire after being recognised by Apple.

Nic Ford, who joined Pleckgate High School four years ago, has been named an Apple Distinguished Educator (ADE) after his drive to integrate technology as much as he can into the daily life of the school.

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Mr Ford, who is also a geography teacher, has been given the accolade for his work including being behind a drive to make Pleckgate one of the first in the country to offer iPad minis to all students in a bid to improve their educational development in 2013.

The father-of-two joins more than 2,000 other ADEs from across the world including in China, New Zealand and the United States.

He will now be able to access more training and resources to boost the use of technology.

Mr Ford said: “Technology can have such a positive impact on a child’s learning and I’m interested in trying to improve that.

“The more technology we have available, the more we can better tailor a child’s learning.

“It’s nice to be recognised for the work that I have done over the last few years and I hope to continue to promote the use of technology here.

“It’s quite an honour to receive this from Apple and it’s great that they support schools and teachers in this way.”

The 42-year-old said he plans to use his new status to push for Pleckgate to become an Apple Distinguished School.

A spokesman for Apple, writing on the company’s website, said: “Apple Distinguished Educators are part of a global community of education leaders recognised for doing amazing things with Apple technology in and out of the classroom.

“They explore new ideas, seek new paths and embrace opportunities.

“That includes working with each other – and with Apple – to bring the freshest, most innovative ideas to students.

“ADEs advise Apple on integrating technology into learning environments – and share their expertise with other educators and policy makers.

“They author original content about their work.

“They advocate the use of Apple products that help engage students in new ways.

“And they are ambassadors of innovation, participating in and presenting at education events around the world.

“Being part of the ADE community is much more than an honour – it’s an opportunity to make a difference.”