Read Around the Planet

In the first weeks of March, 1350 schools from four different countries were linked via videoconferencing as part of 'Read Around the Planet'.

Students from 28 UK schools videoconferenced using the JANET Videoconferencing Service (JVCS) with new-found friends in the United States participating in language and literature activities. From enactments of Shakespearian scenes to a high pressure game show ‘Whose Line is it Anyway?’ teachers and students alike enjoyed the experience. Anita Leech from Sunningwell Primary School, Oxfordshire, commented “We've just finished videoconferencing with Texas - it was a great success and the children thoroughly enjoyed linking up with a school so far away - in a different time zone no less!”

The JANET Videoconferencing Service assisted with the international tests and preparations before the event to help everything run smoothly as each class met their American peers. Carol Seymore from Wrockwardine Wood CE Junior School, Telford, used JVCS to schedule her RAP event. “…Read Around the Planet was excellent. The technology worked so well, which made it perfect. Children from both schools listened and watched with great interest. The questions and answers at the end were entertaining for both classes”.

The JVCS Operators and Booking Service (http://www.jvcs.ja.net/) are available to assist all UK schools with videoconferencing and are free at the point of use.