A national awards scheme promoting technology in Scottish schools has partnered with a global semiconductor company as it seeks to grow its programme across Europe.

Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) joins industry leaders including IT giant HP in supporting Digital Schools Awards.

The not-for-profit programme brings together the technology sector and education authorities to recognise and encourage a whole school approach to the use of digital at nursery, primary, special education and secondary level.

Since Digital Schools Awards was established in 2015, more than 1.1 million children in 4,200 nursery, primary and secondary schools across Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland have taken part in its initiatives. Next year, it hope to welcome a further 800 schools and 300,000 pupils.

AMD will back the educational charity as it expands across Europe, with plans to launch a new European award.

It is also hoped the partnership will advance digital skills in teaching and learning, reward and recognise good practice and encourage the creation of digital schools communities to share experiences and benefits from effective use of technology.

Anna Doody, programme manager, Digital Schools Awards, said: “AMD is a major global technology company in the semiconductor sector with a significant commitment to advancing STEM skills in schools.

“We are excited to have them join our programme and help facilitate digital innovation in as many schools as possible, as we expand across Europe in the coming months.”

AMD, which develops computer processors and related technologies for business and consumer markets, partners with organisations to establish AMD-powered Learning Labs in cities around the world. The facilities aim to inspire and enable students’ pursuits through science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education.

Anne Fertitta, senior manager, global community affairs at AMD added: “At AMD, we’re passionate about enabling the imagination and creativity of the next generation of scientists, researchers and innovators.

“We’re pleased to work with Digital Schools Awards and HP to expand and improve the use of digital technologies for students and teachers in Europe.

Annmarie Whelan, education manager from HP Inc, said: “We are thrilled to have a long-standing partner like AMD to participate with us to this programme in Europe.

“Collaboration is a cornerstone of the Digital Schools Awards and introducing further industry expertise will bring a significant benefit for the schools that take part in the scheme.