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Google Reference School

Proudly recognised as a Google Reference School since 2016 and achieving Premier Reference School status in 2026, Tring School is established as a global benchmark for digital innovation in education.

Our successful 1:1 Chromebook programme and mastery of Google Workspace tools have drawn international attention.  Over the past decade, we have welcomed more than 200 schools and educational leaders from across the globe - including visitors from China, Japan, and the USA - eager to see firsthand how seamlessly integrated technology elevates daily teaching, learning, and student outcome.

At the recent Google UK and Ireland Community Celebration, held on 19 June 2026, Tring School and Mrs Emma Ferris was  presented with the "Legacy Legend" award.  This prestigious accolade serves a dual purpose: it commemorates our milestone, decade-long status as a global Google Reference School, whilst also honouring the dedication and hard work of Mrs Emma Ferris, Digital Learning Lead, for her pivotal role in the early adoption and continued integration of Google for Education.

Becoming a Google Reference School ten years ago was not merely about introducing new hardware; it was about fundamentally transforming our educational landscape.  Since embarking on this journey, our one-to-one Chromebook scheme has revolutionised classroom dynamics.  This award is a testament to the hard work of our entire community - our forward-thinking staff, our supportive governors, and our exceptionally adaptable students.  By embedding these tools into our daily routines, we have fostered an environment defined by heightened collaboration, instant, high-quality teacher feedback, and deeply personalised learning paths.  Our most recent Ofsted inspection beautifully validated these ongoing efforts, explicitly praising Tring School as being "at the forefront of online learning".

Emma’s dedication to educational technology is well-known; she was previously recognised on a national stage as the UK and Ireland Google Reference School Teacher of the Year.  The "Legacy Legend" award highlights her extraordinary, long-term commitment.  From the initial rollout a decade ago to our current strategic initiatives - Emma has been one of the driving forces behind our digital evolution.  Emma has provided unwavering, patient support to both colleagues and pupils, ensuring that technology serves as a tool for empowerment rather than a source of stress. Her work focuses on using technology to reduce teacher workloads and enhance the quality of classroom resources, while always ensuring that critical thinking and digital citizenship remain at the heart of a Tring education. 

"This milestone reflects a decade of shared vision. Technology at Tring School has never been about replacing the human element of teaching, but rather amplifying it so every student can thrive."  

As we celebrate this milestone, we remain firmly focused on what lies ahead.  The landscape of educational technology moves at an extraordinary pace, but with our robust digital foundation and world-class staff expertise, Tring School is perfectly positioned to remain a leading light in innovation.  We extend our warmest congratulations to Mrs Ferris and our profound gratitude to everyone who has contributed to making Tring School a beacon of digital excellence over the past ten years.

"Your school is doing exemplary things with Google tools and we’re excited for you to join this select group of Reference Schools."  Jeminatu Alabi-Isama, Google Education Regional Manager, UK


Mrs Emma Ferris receiving the UK and Ireland Google Reference School Award for Teacher of the Year.
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Mrs Emma Ferris joined the Google Education team to discuss Interactivity a​nd Differentiation - Autumn 2024

Interview with Mrs Emma Ferris

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Mr Chris Lickfold and Mrs Emma Ferris joined a webinar discussing Collaborative Learning - Spring 2024

Mr Chris Lickfold talking about the start of Tring School's collaboration with Google for Education

Google Education Story of Impact