Press Release: The Power of AT
Transforming Education: BATA's Pioneering Documentary Series Unveils 'Power of AT' with aims of revolutionising education
LONDON, [21st November] - The British Assistive Technology Association (BATA) proudly presents its groundbreaking 3-part documentary series, 'The Power of AT.' This cinematic endeavour, born from the concern of the countless disabled children left underserved in the UK’s educational system, highlights the pivotal role of Assistive Technology (AT) in education.
Unearthing Untold Stories
'The Power of AT' amplifies the voices of disabled students and pupils from every corner of the United Kingdom, shining a relentless spotlight on the vital need for AT in their educational journey. For individuals of all ages with disabilities, AT stands as a life-altering force, often distinguishing between success and life-long struggle.
'The Power of AT' amplifies the voices of disabled students nationwide, spotlighting the indispensable need for AT in their educational journeys as well as the role of stigma surrounding disability. For disabled individuals, AT often differentiates between success and lifelong challenges. This series unearths a stark reality: despite 1 in 6 UK children having Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND), only 3.1% of eligible pupils across all sectors receive the necessary AT (BESA). Countless others, just shy of support criteria, remain excluded from reaching their potential.
Lily, a young participant in the documentary, shared her journey: "Without AT, I would be much further behind. I used to think, 'You're not smart, you're not as clever as the other people.' I didn't think I was a smart person. Now I know I can do it."
An Ambitious Outreach
Supported by partners such as AT Superstore, Aventido, FindMyFlow, and others, 'The Power of AT' aims to reach 22,000 schools nationwide. The objective? Resonate with school leaders, educators, policymakers, and parents alike. Katherine Perry, BATA’s CEO, declared, "Disabled children have an unequivocal right to education. 'The Power of AT' lays bare AT's transformative power and educational hurdles. We hope it prompts policymakers and educators to champion these critical issues."
AT: A Path to Inclusion
This trailblazing documentary series conveys a compelling message: when AT becomes an inclusive classroom staple, it doesn't just work for disabled pupils; it fosters an ethos of educational inclusion and overarching excellence that benefits all students.
'The Power of AT' marks BATA's first documentary film, raising the bar for advocacy and awareness in the AT sector.
In a parallel initiative set to launch in January 2024, BATA introduces #TeachersForAT. This collaborative endeavour will unite educators and education professionals who aspire to do more for disabled children in the classroom in getting access to life-changing AT.
A Call to Action
BATA urges schools, governing bodies, parents, and organisations to stand with BATA Members. Nominate an internal AT champion and foster an inclusive culture.
Together, let’s ensure no child is left behind in education.
The 'Power of AT' series is available for free at www.bataonline.org/impact.
For more on #TeachersForAT and BATA’s initiatives, visit www.bataonline.org/initiatives.
Notes to Editors
For more information, media inquiries or to speak to the team involved, please contact
Lisa Sampson, Administration Manager, E: lisa.sampson@bataonline.org
About the British Assistive Technology Association (BATA)
BATA is a member organisation and not-for-profit, which aims to unite voices for progress in assistive technology. With 90 members from throughout the UK and around the world, BATA advocates and raises awareness on issues surrounding AT to governments, businesses and communities. BATA aims to capacity build and strengthen the AT sector and industry, challenge stigma, create a vibrant community and network that supports BATA’s mission, and finally, push for better information and evidence through collaborations, partnerships and research.
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