Source: Carrick Times June 2011

A Local company has set up an innovative mobile technology application to promote active learning at home and abroad.

Astute Labs Ltd, run by Carrick man Richard Johnston, launched its 'School App Kit' at the start of the year, with a publishing tool currently free in the iTunes App Store. The School App Kit is an iPhone app and website that enables schools to build their own iPhone app. It also builds a mobile website and full website with all the same information at the same time.

"I'm a parent myself, and sometimes I find negotiating school websites awkward," said Richard, a graduate of Queen's University who set up the company 18 months ago to focus on mobile software.

"On the other hand, my wife is a teacher and she has found it difficult in the past to update information on school websites. The idea behind the app is to allow parents and teachers to access school information in a more convenient way.

Weekly notices, calendar events, sports results, last minute closures and other important information should be accessible everywhere by parents rather than stuck to the fridge, in a crumpled note in a school bag or by phoning the school.:

Victoria Primary School in Carrick has already availed of the service, says acting principal John Armstrong.

"We have a lot of notices and information that goes out to parents on paper, and we wanted to dispense with that," said Mr Armstrong.

"A few members of the PTA came forward and told me about the School App Kit, and we used it to launch the new website and mobile app last month.

"It's a brilliant service as it can be used from home or on a mobile phone, so its's very accessible and convenient for parents. We currently have a school trip taking place in Scotland, so teachers will have the ability to post updates and photos to let parents know how children are getting on."

The app also helps parents and pupils promote school news by tapping into the power of Facebook and Twitter to share what's going on in school life.

The iPhone app was launched to a global audience and has since been downloaded in over 58 countries.

www.astutelabs.com

www.schoolappkit.com