Safe & Responsible Use of ICT in School
13th September 2024
“ICT Usage Agreement”
It is important that both parents and students read and understand the schools “ICT Usage Agreement”. Internet technology can be harmful, mentally, emotionally and socially. The ICT Usage Agreement is there to ensure the safe and responsible use of technology in and around school. When in school, computing technology is to be used for school work only, for example: researching assignments, writing reports and creating presentations. It is not to be used for social media or personal entertainment.
“Bring Your Own Device Agreement”
Within the Secondary School we allow and encourage students to bring in their own devices, tablets and laptops. To ensure the safe and effective use of these devices parents and students must read and adhere to the, “Bring Your Own Device to School Agreement” or “BYOD Agreement”. The safety and security of the device remains the responsibility of the student. Students must follow the ICT Usage Agreement, and the school has the right to view the contents of the device if they have reasonable concerns. We are a phone free school. If a student brings a phone to school they must hand it in at reception before the start of the school day and pick it up when going home. If phones are used on the school bus, then students must be considerate and respectful of those around them.
AI and Data Protection
Two other issues that are of growing importance within education are the use of AI (artificial intelligence) and the rules and guidelines regarding Data Protection. AI should only be used to improve learning, never to replace it. Students should be open and honest when using AI and disclose the extent to which it has been used.
Parents, staff and students are reminded that they are not allowed to take photos or videos of people when in school or on school trips, unless proper consent has been given. The school maintains a record of “media consent”, a list of students whose parents have given consent to the school to use student images.
Details of the “ICT Usage Agreement” and the “BYOD Agreement” can be found in the “Parent, Student Handbook” sent out by email at the start of each school year. The documents will be sent out via the Engage platform for parents and students to read, sign and return.
Mr Took, ICT/Computing Dept
