Cumbrian schoolchildren selected as judges at the world's biggest EdTech event, Bett UK 2024, are set to join celebrated poet and children's author Michael Rosen on stage.

The pupils of Crosthwaite Primary, Kendal, will be among more than 60 children from 14 schools from across the UK.

The youngsters will critique cutting-edge technologies displayed at Bett UK, which attracts over 30,000 educators, innovators, and changemakers from around the world looking to make an impact on the lives of teachers and learners.

Taking place at London's ExCeL Centre from January 24-26, Crosthwaite Primary's students, accompanied by their teachers and parents, will participate in the competition alongside their counterparts from across the UK, including pupils from Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) schools.

Crosthwaite Primary's head teacher, Matt Jessop, said: “Our students are so excited to be taking part in Kids Judge Bett.

"We have seen first-hand the positive impact that technology can have in the classroom, and look forward to exploring how our school can continue embracing innovative digital solutions with the potential to improve student engagement, inclusion, learning outcomes, and creativity.

"Kids Judge Bett is a unique and wonderful initiative that allows children to have their voices heard and, equally, I’m sure our students will have a brilliant time trying out all the tech and sharing their thoughts."

Now in its ninth year, the popular Kids Judge Bett initiative was first originated in 2016 by Katy Potts, computing and online safety lead for schools at Islington Council.

She said: "I was inspired to launch Kids Judge Bett almost a decade ago as a way of getting students more involved in the show, because who better to judge EdTech and learning resources for schools and families than the children themselves."

This year's categories will focus on sustainability, artificial intelligence adaptation, and inclusion.

Following last year's tradition, the children themselves will announce the winners on stage beside Michael Rosen.

Emma Vandore, head of content at Bett, said: “We are thrilled to welcome students from Crosthwaite Primary for what is set to be a very exciting day at Bett UK 2024!"