The second half of this term is almost here; with the digital classroom being a fast-moving space, and technology having the propensity to revolutionise teaching and learning, it’s easy to stumble into common pitfalls.

For the remainder of the term, let’s proactively streamline the use of digital tools for schools to ensure maximum impact, security, and learning continuity.

Here are five edtech mistakes to avoid:

1. Using too many disjointed tools

It’s tempting to trial every exciting new school app for teachers and students that pops up. However, having a sprawl of unconnected platforms creates ‘digital fatigue’ for everyone.

The Fix: Centralise.

Look for a robust digital school platform that can gather all the school’s digital tools in one place. A unified approach, like using a single platform for all your digital teaching materials, saves time and provides a much clearer overview for administrators, teachers, and students. This is key to realising true digitalisation in schools.

2. Ignoring security and privacy protocols

In the UK, adherence to GDPR is not optional, especially when dealing with student data. Using unvetted or non-compliant IT solutions for schools is a major risk.

The Fix: Prioritise a GDPR-secure school platform.

This is absolutely critical. Ensure your platform offers features like single sign-on and transparent data processing. Always ask providers about their security measures—a safe and secure school platform for students and teachers should be your baseline requirement.

3. Complicating the login process

Nothing wastes valuable class time faster than complex login procedures. When students or staff struggle with multiple usernames and passwords, the pedagogical flow is lost.

The Fix: Implement simple, universal access.

Tools like the Skolon Pass feature are designed for this—a single click or scan should grant access to all necessary digital learning resources for primary school (or secondary). Look for easy login to the school’s digital tools to maximise learning time and minimise frustration.

4. Failing to empower staff and students with training

Simply purchasing the best digital school platform in the UK won’t guarantee success. If staff haven’t been adequately trained, even the most powerful features—like AI features in digital school platforms—will go unused or be used poorly.

The Fix: Be proactive with professional development.

Offer short, targeted training sessions focusing on specific, time-saving tools for school administrators and teachers. Ensure everyone knows how to effectively utilise their digital tools for students to drive learning outcomes. With Skolon, everyone is onboarded and receives training beforehand—so your team feels confident from day one.

5. Overlooking the needs of school administration digitalisation

EdTech often focuses primarily on the classroom, but ignoring the back-end processes misses a huge opportunity for efficiency. Manual processes in administration drain resources and time.

The Fix: Look for platforms, such as Skolon, that offer comprehensive support for the entire school environment.

Good administration digitalisation should simplify user management, licensing, and reporting. Implementing robust platforms allows staff to shift focus from tedious paperwork to supporting teaching and learning. It’s a smart, proactive way to manage your school’s digital infrastructure efficiently.

By avoiding these five mistakes, you can ensure your school’s digital strategy is pedagogical, proactive, and secure—setting up the rest of the term for success!

Interested in seeing how the Skolon platform can simplify your school’s EdTech ecosystem? Use the button below to find out more.