“Portsmouth: The Digital City” Project

Writing is a significant challenge for many UK pupils, especially those with SEND or from disadvantaged backgrounds. For over 30 years, our software has helped learners become confident, independent writers by removing barriers and encouraging active participation across mainstream and special schools. 

In Portsmouth, one of the UK’s most deprived areas, we partnered with the “Portsmouth: The Digital City” initiative to raise literacy standards. Clicker and DocsPlus were introduced as universal writing support tools into 30 primary schools and 8 secondary schools, with bespoke training and flexible CPD for staff to promote successful implementation.  

Clicker is an accessible tool that gets these children from ‘I can’t do this’ to ‘I can do this’ to ‘I can do this by myself.’ It’s just brilliant.

The results have been transformative:

  • Pupils who previously avoided writing now produce work independently and confidently. 
  • Teachers report increased engagement, reduced stigma around support tools, and improved classroom inclusivity. 
  • The software supports writing, reading, and communication both at school and at home - meeting individual needs and promoting equity. 
“We’re in an area with a wide range of needs, and giving every child the tools to succeed in literacy is something we are passionate about. When we approached Crick Software, they shared our commitment to improving outcomes for all students and helping them develop essential writing skills both for now and in the future. Their software has transformed how children across Portsmouth experience writing. By using this technology thoughtfully, we are now enhancing learning, supporting inclusion, reducing workload, and helping every member of our community achieve their full potential.” 
Gemma Gwilliam, 
Head of Digital Learning, Education and Innovation 
for the “Portsmouth: The Digital City” Project

What do pupils and teachers think?

The impact of Clicker and DocsPlus goes beyond writing data - it’s felt by the pupils and teachers who use it every day. Hear directly from the users of our software and learn what the pupils and teachers in Portsmouth think about Clicker and DocsPlus.

Explore individual school success stories

Explore how Clicker and DocsPlus have made a difference in specific Portsmouth schools - from infant to secondary to special settings. Each story highlights the unique challenges faced and the powerful impact of inclusive writing support.

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