Frequently asked questions

WILL ALL LESSONS BE TAUGHT USING A DEVICE?

Not necessarily. Devices are not a substitute for great teaching, but they will complement teaching in a multitude of ways. The extent to which devices are used in lessons will vary from one lesson to the next, but there will be positive ways for all subjects to regularly incorporate devices into lessons.

HOW WILL DEVICES BE CHARGED?

Pupils will be expected to bring a fully charged device to school every day. The Surface Pro and Go have batteries that will last for the day, if used only in lessons. There will be charging stations around school and in houses so that pupils can top up their charge during lunch and break times.

IS AMOUNT OF SCREEN TIME GOING TO BE AN ISSUE?

Pupils will not spend all day looking at a screen. Teaching pupils responsible use of technology is essential. We will encourage pupils to use devices positively and for productive reasons, not excessively. Our pastoral care system continues to address e-safety issues in addition to topics such as screen time, managing the pressures of social media and emotional health and general wellbeing. In terms of physical wellbeing, it is important that we educate staff and students on the importance of posture and eye health and on the effects of screens on mental health and sleep.

WHAT IF WE ALREADY OWN A DEVICE BUT IT ISN’T ON THE LIST? (I.E. IT ISN’T A SURFACE PRO OR GO)

We strongly recommend the Surface Pro and Surface Go devices – they are designed for education and are well tested in schools. Other devices are possible and our IT Support team will be able to support them so long as they comply with criteria listed. If in doubt, please contact the IT Support team.

WHERE DO MOBILE PHONES FEATURE IN THIS?

We will be reviewing the mobile phone policy with a view to restricting their use around school. This is consistent with the narrative around encouraging productive use of technology during the school day.

HOW WILL THIS AFFECT PUBLIC EXAMINATIONS?

At present, examinations are handwritten and we will continue to prepare pupils for this. There are, however, an increasing number of pupils typing exams and universities use this as standard practice. Inking is inevitably going to be considered for examinations in time and our pupils will be prepared for this.

Next Steps

APRIL

Further information provided on how to use the school portal to purchase devices and associated bundles along with a more detailed list of required software and accessories.

JULY

Last date to purchase devices via the portal in time for the new school year.

AUGUST

Pupils entering the First, Second, Third or Fourth Form, or the Lower Sixth, will be required to ensure that their device has been set up by the IT department and configured to provide access to the school network.

SEPTEMBER

During the first few days of the term, pupils will be shown how best to use their devices and access the materials provided in lessons.