As outlined in the Primary Curriculum Framework (2023), ‘Being a Digital Learner’ is a key competency that ‘supports children in becoming curious, creative, and confident users of digital technology’ (p.10). Built-in iPad apps offer simple, flexible ways to support this – without the need for expensive subscriptions or complex tools. These tools also align naturally with Universal Design for Learning (UDL), offering multiple ways for pupils to engage with content, express their learning, and access the curriculum.
Here are some practical ways teachers can integrate iPad tools into teaching, learning, and assessment using apps that are already available on every device.
Freeform – Visual Thinking and Collaboration
At first glance, Freeform might seem like one of the more underwhelming apps on the iPad, but it quickly proves itself to be a highly flexible and creative digital space once explored in a classroom setting. As a visual whiteboard, Freeform allows pupils to brainstorm, plan, and solve problems in a completely open-ended way.
In the classroom, Freeform is excellent for group brainstorming and idea generation. Pupils can create story maps, plan projects, or organise information using text boxes, sticky notes, symbols and images. For example, I use Freeform when planning a written activity. Pupils love using the split screen on the iPad to drag in pictures of settings and characters, sketch out plot ideas, and add text labels – all on one board. In History, Freeform can be used for collaborative mind maps where groups explore topics and express their learning in a variety of ways. As the Freeform board is infinitely expandable, there's plenty of room for every idea and contribution!
More than just a planning tool, Freeform can also support formative assessment and problem-solving. Even with our younger learners, I often use the symbols in Freeform to make number sentences. A favourite activity for the pupils is when I use the camera in freeform to take pictures of their fingers, which we combine to make a number. There is always great excitement when I have four pupils’ fingers and three of another. The pupils then work in pairs to make the number in different ways.
Pupils using split screen, shapes, formatting and multimedia options all support independent learning and critical digital skills. For instance, during a Maths lesson, I give pupils a certain amount of money to spend on a certain website. The pupils are given specific criteria, such as dressing me for a match, and they drag in images of the types of clothing and the total cost. It is crucial that the pupils remain within budget!
In short, Freeform transforms the iPad into a thinking canvas – promoting creativity, collaboration and problem-solving across the curriculum, and giving pupils meaningful opportunities to engage with digital tools in a purposeful way. At first glance, you may think that Freeform is a one-trick pony; it is an incredible tool to nurture our pupils ‘innate curiosity and involves having opportunities to interact, investigate, question, and wonder (Primary Curriculum Framework 2023, p.11)
Clips – Creative Storytelling and Assessment in Action
Clips is a simple but powerful video creation app that enables pupils to communicate ideas using video, voice, text, emojis and music – making it ideal for supporting the competencies of being a digital learner and being an active learner competency. Unlike more complex editing tools, Clips is highly accessible for younger pupils, with a user-friendly interface that allows learners to record short video clips, add live captions, stickers, soundtracks and transitions – all within minutes.
In the classroom, Clips is particularly effective for oral language development, digital storytelling and reflection. For instance, pupils might use the app to record a short book review, retell a story, or present a character interview. The ability to overlay animated text and stickers helps even reluctant speakers feel more confident, as the visual elements can support what they are saying. In Gaeilge, pupils can record themselves practising vocabulary or constructing sentences, helping to build fluency while teachers gain a clear insight into their progress.
Clips also lends itself brilliantly to formative assessment. Pupils can create explanation videos in subjects like SESE or Science, for example, describing the lifecycle of a butterfly or explaining the history of hurling. With voiceover and visual annotation, teachers can assess both subject knowledge and communication skills. It also provides an inclusive way for pupils with literacy challenges or allows our pupils with EAL needs to demonstrate understanding without relying solely on written work.
The app can also be used to support self-assessment and reflection. Pupils might record a short video at the end of the week reflecting on what they learned, a challenge they overcame, or a goal they’re working towards. These videos can be stored in a digital portfolio or shared with teachers and parents – creating a visible, multimedia record of learning.
Whether it’s for storytelling, explanation, reflection or presentation, Clips offers a dynamic, child-friendly way for pupils to use video as a tool for learning and communication. It supports creativity, agency and digital confidence – all central to the vision of the Primary Curriculum Framework.
Final thoughts
Using the iPad in the primary classroom opens up a wealth of opportunities to nurture pupils as digital learners in line with the Primary Curriculum Framework (2023). Apps like Freeform and Clips provide accessible, engaging and inclusive ways for children to explore, create and communicate – supporting key competencies such as creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. These built-in tools not only promote digital confidence but also align with Universal Design for Learning principles, ensuring every pupil has the means to succeed and express themselves. All this from just two apps! Let’s not forget that the app store and other built-in Apple apps offer infinite educational possibilities.
There’s something powerful about when a child goes home and, in response to “What did you do at school today?”, they say, “We made a movie!” This not only reflects their engagement, but also shows how technology can give learning real purpose and meaning. By integrating these tools into everyday teaching, learning and assessment, we empower our pupils to be curious, capable and confident users of digital technology – well-equipped for the world they are growing into.