Matthew Day

About

Rather than disposing of obsolete college devices and purchasing replacements, Matthew developed a system that extends the operational life of existing technology through refurbishment. Devices that have become unsuitable for standard institutional use are securely wiped, upgraded, converted from Windows 10 to ChromeOS Flex, then redistributed to students with digital access barriers. This is all undertaken by our own learners, working alongside IT Services staff for support.

This initiative promotes and raises awareness of responsible consumption (SDG12) while improving the lives of our most deprived learners (SDG10). 'Working together to transform lives' is our mission at Bradford College, and this is a perfect example of how our departments can collaborate to do just that! All while reducing waste too. Digital exclusion can be a huge barrier to education (SDG4) and this project is helping our learners to overcome that, while also developing vital skills for other students (SDG8).

Top 3 learnings

1. We learned that digital inclusion requires support to use the technology effectively.
2. We discovered that peer-to-peer support can build skills, confidence and a sense of purpose.
3. We found that with cross-college collaboration, even small initiatives can deliver significant benefits.

What it means to win

Winning this Green Gown Award would be a tremendous recognition of Matthew’s leadership and dedication to creating positive change. It would acknowledge the dedication he has shown in bringing together staff and students from different areas to address both digital inequality and environmental sustainability. For Bradford College, the award would reinforce our commitment to our mission of “Working Together to Transform Lives” - celebrating the power of cross college collaboration and showcasing how innovative thinking can deliver meaningful environmental and social impact. For the students involved, winning would validate their contribution to a project that has had a direct positive impact on their peers. It would recognise the value of student-led action and highlight the important role learners can play in driving sustainability and social change. Winning would also raise the profile of the initiative and provide an opportunity to share the Netbooks4All model more widely across tertiary education, inspiring other institutions to adopt similar circular economy approaches. Most importantly, it would celebrate the collective efforts of our staff and students who have worked together to tackle digital exclusion and create opportunities for some of our most disadvantaged learners.

SDG