One to One devices?

Every student at the academy receives a personal device to enhance their learning experience and to support digital learning. This device is theirs to keep and use throughout their classes and for homework assignments.

Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9): Students in Key Stage 3 are equipped with iPads. These tablets feature touchscreen technology and an on-screen keyboard, and they are manufactured by Apple. The iPads come with a suite of educational applications pre-installed, which students can use for self-directed learning or as part of their teacher’s instructions.

Key Stage 4: Upon entering Key Stage 4, students transition from iPads to Chromebooks. Chromebooks are compact laptops that run on Google’s Chrome OS. They come with various educational applications pre-installed, and most student tasks are accessed through the Chrome web browser.

Key Stage 5: Students in Key Stage 5 continue to use Chromebooks to support their ongoing education.

What are the benefits of Digital Learning?

Digital learning offers several advantages for both students and educational institutions.

1. Full-Time Access to Materials: With digital learning, study materials are always available. Students can learn at their own pace, choose the best times for studying, and access resources wherever they are.
2. Facilitates Collaboration: Digital tools enable collaboration through video conferencing and shared documents. It prepares students for collaborative work in the professional world.
3. More Resources: Recorded lessons and additional reading materials can be easily shared, allowing students to maximise their learning and delve deeper into challenging subjects.
4. Better Engagement: Digital analysis helps institutions track student engagement. If a student becomes disengaged, struggles, or faces health issues, educators can intervene more efficiently.
5. Personalised Learning: Digital platforms allow for personalised teaching methods, catering to individual learning preferences. This enhances the effectiveness of teaching and learning.
6. Improved Access to Resources: Digital learning provides access to a wealth of online libraries, databases, and multimedia content, enriching the learning experience.
7. Flexibility: Students can learn from anywhere, at any time, using various devices. This flexibility accommodates diverse schedules and lifestyles.
8. Enhanced Engagement: Interactive elements like quizzes, simulations, and discussion forums keep students engaged and motivated.

In summary, digital learning empowers students with flexibility, collaboration, personalised learning, and a wealth of resources, ultimately enhancing their educational experience.

Managing my Child’s devices at home

Links – to learning applications

The Support we offer:

From the outset, students receive comprehensive support to ensure they are adept at using their devices and the associated apps. This includes:

• In-Class Assistance: Teachers provide hands-on guidance for app usage.
• Student Zone: An intranet portal featuring a variety of instructional videos and images.
• Team Resources: Additional in-class support materials.

Parental support is also a priority:

• Drop-In Sessions: Offered throughout the year, these sessions assist parents in managing their child’s digital environment, covering device management, digital literacy, and safety.
• Weekly Newsletter: Updates parents on new digital platforms, games, and social media apps.
• Device Monitoring: Continuous surveillance using keyword-detection software to identify and address safeguarding concerns promptly.
• Device Restrictions: Prevents the installation of unauthorised software and access to certain websites, maintaining a secure digital space for students.