About Make IT Happen 2008

The 2008 Make IT Happen competition is now closed. Winning schools will be notified and invited to come to the Houses of Parliament for an awards ceremony in October. Stay tuned for details of the 2009 competition.

The competition is jointly organised by the Parliamentary Information Technology Committee (PITCOM) and e-skills UK, (the Sector Skills Council for IT and Telecoms), in partnership with the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET). 

Make IT Happen 2008 calls on schools to use technology to describe how they would change an aspect of their local community for the better.

Schools are encouraged to focus on an issue they really care about, such as tackling bullying or littering, helping to improve the local environment or supporting their community.

Judges will be looking for student-led projects that show initiative and imagination, make the most of students’ technology skills and can demonstrate a clear aim and objectives.  e-skills UK is making guides available online to help schools design their entries.

Andrew Miller, Labour MP for Ellesmere Port and Neston and Chairman of PITCOM said: “It’s amazing what young people can do when they are given access to technology. ‘Make IT Happen 2008’ gives us an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the best of this work. We are delighted that so many MPs are backing the 2008 competition and will be encouraging their local schools to enter.”

Karen Price, CEO, e-skills UK said: “Technology increasingly underpins every aspect of our daily lives and can bring many benefits. We believe that that this year’s challenge will not only harness the natural energy and enthusiasm of young people for technology, but will also provide them with a unique opportunity to understand how IT can help them make a positive contribution to their world.”

All prizes are being supported by the Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET).

Robin McGill, Chief Executive, IET said: “Make IT Happen raises awareness of the excellent work being undertaken in many of the UK’s primary schools to help young people develop an understanding of technology.  Education is the key to the future and we are delighted to be a partner in this initiative."

Cash prizes will be available for the winning school from each of the English Regions and Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland. In addition, three overall winners will be appointed. 

The closing date for entries was 31 July 2008. Winning schools will be notified and invited to come to the Houses of Parliament for an awards ceremony in October.