Over the past six months, Forward Education and InkSmith have partnered with school divisions across Alberta to implement the province’s new coding curriculum in hundreds of schools. United under one group of companies, our mission continues to empower educators and students with innovative tools that align seamlessly with Alberta’s education goals. Here are eight reasons why districts continue to choose InkSmith and Forward Education as their STEAM partner of choice:

Cross-walked Alberta Curriculum Coverage
Simplified Implementation for Teachers
Differentiated Learning for Diverse Student Needs
Proudly Canadian STEAM Solution
Stretch Your STEAM Budget Further
Future-Proof Technology That Evolves with You
Cutting-Edge Features for Alberta Classrooms
Real-World Environmental Literacy Integration and Green Economy Careers

1. Cross-walked Alberta Science and Math Curriculum Coverage

Forward Education’s solutions provide comprehensive coverage of Alberta’s coding requirements in the new Science and Math Curriculum, alongside alignment with Social Studies and Career and Technology Foundations (CTF). This cross-disciplinary integration ensures students develop foundational coding skills while connecting to real-world applications across multiple subjects.

View our curriculum cross-walking guide here.

2. Simplified Implementation for Teachers

We understand that implementing new technology can feel daunting, but Forward Education makes it easy. Our platform requires minimal teacher training, allowing educators to confidently deliver lessons from day one. For teachers already familiar with micro:bit, our solution builds on this knowledge, making it even easier to integrate Forward into everyday learning.

Read more teacher training courses and professional development offerings here.

3. Differentiated Learning for Diverse Student Needs

Forward Education provides lessons and coding tutorials designed to meet the needs of all learners. From beginner-friendly activities to advanced challenges, students of every skill level can grow their confidence and creativity. This flexibility allows students to go “beyond the box” as they explore their own innovative ideas.

Take the 2-minute lesson tour: Click Here

4. Proudly Canadian STEAM Solution

As a homegrown company serving Alberta districts since 2016, Forward Education is committed to supporting Canadian educators. At a time when tariffs from international competitors drive up costs, choosing Forward means investing in a Canadian company that understands the unique needs of Alberta schools.

Learn more about our story here .

5. Stretching STEAM Budgets Further

With Forward Education, schools can make the most of their STEAM budgets. Our single hardware platform supports multiple grades and subjects, eliminating the need to purchase and maintain multiple coding kits. This scalable, cost-effective solution ensures every dollar goes further.

Check out how districts implement our system [here].

6. Future-Proof Technology That Evolves with You

Forward Education’s hardware platform is designed for the long haul. New features, lessons, and components—such as motors, sensors, and building blocks—are continually added to the ecosystem. Best of all, every component is backward and forward compatible, ensuring schools never have to worry about obsolescence.

Discover how our hardware ensures long-term value [here].

7. Cutting-Edge Features for Alberta Classrooms

Forward Education sets the standard for next-generation coding kits with unique features like live programming, pinless coding, daisy-chaining components, and reversible cables. These advancements make STEAM learning more accessible, engaging, and impactful for Alberta students.

Explore what sets our system apart here.

8. Real-World Environmental Literacy Integration and Green Economy Careers

With Alberta's focus on environmental education, Forward Education offers dozens of lessons that connect STEAM learning to real-world sustainability challenges. Students learn about renewable energy, climate action, and more through engaging, hands-on projects that align with curriculum goals and real-world careers.

Learn more about linking lessons to real-world careers here.

Why Choose Forward Education?

Forward Education isn’t just a STEM tool; it’s a comprehensive solution for preparing Alberta students for the future. By bridging curriculum alignment, teacher support, and innovative technology, we empower educators to deliver impactful, real-world STEM learning experiences.

Get started with Forward Education today—visit us to learn more [here].