Classroom Stories competition – Video guidelines

Published: March 22nd, 2021

Ask yourself, do you ever share your classroom stories? Those little things that make your classroom special or school unique. If you’ve got a story that puts a smile on your face, we want to see it.

For the fourth year running, Promethean’s Classroom Stories competition is encouraging schools across the UK and Ireland to share their most inspiring stories with the world. This time we have 20 ActivPanels to award to the schools who demonstrate the most passion, innovation and imagination. 

But first, what makes a winning story?

The best videos share a story that illustrates something unique about your classroom or school. Tell us why it makes you proud. Better still, work with your students to create your video. Show us how your school is making a difference in your community. Or just give us a glimpse of what makes your classroom special.

All of our previous winning entries highlighted exactly how technology would enable them to do much more in their classrooms. What’s more, the pupils always put themselves at the heart of the video; they were the ones who would benefit from technology, afterall. 

Just create your Classroom Stories video and upload your submission anytime between now and the deadline of 25th June 2021. To give you a head start, here are five top tips that can make your recording look its best:

Tip #1 – Involve the school

The Ravensbourne School (of Hard Knocks) submitted a fun, theatrical entry, highlighting their desire for new technologies in their school. Watch their video for more inspiration.

Tip #2 – Be clear how an ActivPanel would help 

Think of a creative angle that sets your video apart from the others. Wawne Primary School’s entry took us back in time to demonstrate just how far behind they were in the education technology stakes.

Tip #3 – Let the pupils be the star of your show 

Tottington Primary School’s winning entry featured a star pupil, Jamie, who’s plea captured the hearts of everyone who watched it, and the video became viral online. 

Tip #4 – Get your tech right

Consider a few little filming tips to get the best out of your submission. Make sure the room you’re filming in is well lit — try standing next to a window for natural light. Film your video in landscape, not portrait mode to ensure you get your subject into your shot and make it easier to view online. And consider placing your phone on a tripod, stand, cupboard or shelf – just so that the footage is steady.

Tip #5 – Timing is key

Finally, be mindful of time. Ensure your video file is no longer than 2 minutes. If you need to cut down your story to keep it within that time frame. 

Now’s the perfect time to share your most inspiring teaching story. Upload your video here, and we’ll be in touch. For ideas, check out more Classroom Stories to see what other schools are doing simply for the love of education. If you have any questions, please feel free to email classroomstories@prometheanworld.com

Good luck!