VICTA Tech Week
Helping young people get the technology and skills they need.
Ensuring that young people have the right technology to support their development at home and at school can be a real challenge. Parents can find it hard to know which devices, software or apps will be most effective in supporting their young person’s education, where to go for advice and support on new products, and what to do when things go wrong.
To help shine a light on all of this, and to equip you with a range of hints and tricks around technology, VICTA has teamed up with TAVIP (the Technology Association of Visually Impaired People) to host three webinars to mark Global Accessibility Awareness Day 2026, which is on Thursday 21 May.
We have brought together a range of experts from across the sector who are involved in supporting children and young people with technology. We will set out the context for technology, provide guidance on keeping your children and young people safe online, discuss some of the most common assistive technology devices, software and apps, and we’ll look at issues around transitions and equipping young people with the technology skills they will need in later life.
There are 3 webinars taking place to highlight Global Accessibility Awareness Day and VICTA Tech Week:
Tuesday 12 May, 7-8pm: Online Harms & AI Awareness with the National Youth Agency
This workshop explores how the rapid evolution of technology is shaping the online experiences of young people today. Parents will gain a clear and practical understanding of online harms, digital safety, and the changing landscape of risk. The session will cover the types of challenges young people may encounter online, how these risks are developing, and provide an update on the proposed social media ban in the UK. We will also examine the growing use of AI companions, discussing both their potential benefits and associated risks. The workshop will end with a focus on technology for good, highlighting how youth workers are increasingly using digital tools to support young people across England.
Topics Covered:
- Social media: Then vs Now
- Defining Online Harms and Online Safety
- Current and Emerging Risks
- Understanding the Social Media Ban
- Exploring Digital Youth Work
Bex Pink is the National Digital Innovation Lead at the National Youth Agency, the professional body for youth work in England. A qualified youth worker with over 15 years of experience, Bex specialises in the opportunities and risks those emerging technologies present for youth work and for young people.
In this national role, Bex leads work on digitally transforming youth work practice, exploring accessible pathways for young people into youth work, and ensuring the sector keeps pace with rapidly evolving digital trends. Bex has a particular interest in immersive technologies and the rise of AI companions, exploring how these tools are reshaping young people’s experiences, relationships, and sense of the world around them.
Bex also provides sector guidance, training, and support to help organisations navigate technological and develop impactful digital youth work services. As part of her work, Bex developed the NYA Digital Youth Work Standards, supporting youth workers and organisations to embed high quality, ethical and future ready digital practice.
Monday 18 May, 7-8:30pm: Tech for Fun with RSBC
Join Alex, a Senior Accessibility Advisor from the Royal Society for Blind Children, as he will showcase the latest and greatest in tech and how it can be fun for everyone.
From reading, to TV, social media and of course gaming, learn about how you can use Assistive technology for fun!
Whether your child is curious about gaming, loves stories and music, or you’re a parent wanting to explore supportive technology, this session offers something for everyone.
This is also a fantastic opportunity to find out how you and your family can benefit from RSBC’s services and support.
Thursday 21 May, 7-8:30pm: Primary to Secondary Tech Transitioning with TPT
The transition from primary to secondary school can be an exciting time for a blind or partially sighted young person, but it can also feel daunting. Technology is a powerful tool for independence, access and achievement, it can be a game-changer in helping your child to thrive and flourish as they take this next step in their education journey.
Join the Education team at Thomas Pocklington Trust for a supportive, practical session designed to help you feel informed and prepared. We’ll guide you through key things you need to know to help your child make the most of technology at secondary school. We will also explain the support they are entitled to, share advice on how to address inaccessible teaching and highlight where you can turn for ongoing help and guidance.
Please apply below and tick which session(s) you would like to attend.
After applications close, we will be in touch to confirm your place on the workshops.
