The competition is run by an online company called KAZ Typing, which has a program that helps teach touch-typing.
It was bought by the States and is being used across all local schools.
‘We couldn’t believe it,’ said Jessica Bazzaz, the school’s IT lead.
‘We’re delighted. There’s a particular child in year five who apparently has done the most KAZ typing globally.
'Keyboarding is part of our writing framework, alongside handwriting – it’s given equal weighting. In 2030 some of the main resources will be done on devices. So these pupils and everyone onwards are going to need to have good keyboarding skills for future exam success.’
The keyboarding teaching begins in year three, at the age of seven. As students enter Key Stage Two, it becomes part of their curriculum as a dedicated 20 minute lesson once or twice a week.
With the programme, students get timed and receive feedback on their words per minute and level of accuracy. Each year group aims for different stats. By the end of Year 6, they should be able to type about 25 words per minute.
‘We’re surprised that we’re teaching it more than others,’ said Mrs Bazzaz.
‘It’s really engaging for them because they receive instant feedback, they can literally see their progress. Everyone on the island is doing it. I’ve been looking at the list, and Hautes Capelles Primary is also in the top 10.
‘We’re really pleased our hard work is paying off and I feel like it’s going to up the profile of the whole platform.’
Older students passionate about technology can apply for the school’s digital leaders program. The elected pupils share their expertise with the other students and teachers in the school.
They help with equipment and trouble-shooting, and support peers, lead assemblies on online safety, and assist younger classes with their computing lessons.
Mrs Bazzaz said it was a highly sought after position and she interviews many applicants each year for the role.
