The EU’s first 'Digital Wellbeing' schools award programme is officially being launched in Ireland today.

The award recognises schools demonstrating good practice and supports the efforts of those trying to maximise their digital potential.

The first award goes to St Joseph's Secondary School, Rush, in County Dublin - which gets a 'special recognition badge' for taking part in the pilot.

Launching the scheme, spokesperson Anna Doody said it's been developed along with webwise.ie - to foster healthier digital habits.

“Healthier digital habits are strongly linked to how confident we feel online and this new programme is designed to recognise schools that provide a positive and supportive environment for pupils to be able to navigate the digital world safely and confidently,” she said.

The 'Digital Wellbeing' schools award programme is free to all schools, offering a roadmap and resources to schools seeking to do more with technology in their classrooms.

Cute child with glasses learning how to use a laptop. Image: Alamy