Following a highly successful App Design Enterprise back in July 2015, three Howell’s teams were selected to be judged in the final 10 in the GDST App Design Competition, from an original 35 entries. Team ATM (Emily C, Elysia G, Renee M, Louise S and Zoe W), Team EdJump (Bronwen E, Becky J and Becca P) and Team Rush Hour (Grace D, Dinara J, Tiegan O, Isabel S) had to skype with judges on Friday 13 November to pitch their idea. Despite the nerves for this ‘unusual’ meeting each team presented their idea confidently and enthusiastically – impressing the judges with their creativity and imagination. Following the judging all three teams were invited to BT Tower in London on Friday 20 November to showcase their ideas with other GDST schools. After an early start and good journey into London, the girls' excitement mounted as the iconic BT Tower came into view. Security checks followed and the teams were welcomed by the GDST staff where they were given a laptop and flipchart to present their ideas. All teams, judges and invited guests spoke to each team and it was fascinating to see the ideas of the other seven finalists. Following a delicious lunch we were all invited to ride the 33 floors in the lift to enjoy the views at the top and, wow, what a view! We were so fortunate to have a beautifully clear day where we could view London at its very best. The presentations followed and there were highly motivating speeches given by Helen Fraser (CEO at GDST) and Jacqueline de Rojas (Most Influential Woman in IT 2014). A key message from Jacqueline was ‘Great ideas die in the Board Room and thrive in the coffee shop’ – food for thought for technology and future App Designers! We were delighted that EdJump were one of the top three winning teams and our congratulations go to Birkenhead Academy whose app iLife was inspired. We look forward to the App Designers of 2016 when we launch the competition later this year with Year 9.
