Digital Learning
It is vital that our pupils are prepared for life and work in the twenty-first century. To that end, we ensure that they have access to the latest technology, both to enhance their access to online learning resources and to make sure they are adept at using different technological platforms. We aim to strike the right balance between developing the boys' handwriting and using more traditional teaching and research methods, while embracing the benefits of technology across the curriculum.
Coding and Computing is taught as a discrete subject, while there are several ICT-based clubs at lunchtimes and after school. We have a fully-equipped ICT and music technology suite, which contains enough iMacs for a full class of pupils, with access to both Windows and Mac platforms. The library and media room complex also contains iMacs for internet research, while there are 'hubs' of iPads placed strategically around the school, easily accessed by staff and pupils for appropriate use in lessons. We also have computers and data projectors with 'Apple TV' capability in all classrooms.
We are also very conscious of the need to ensure that our boys and their families use technology safely. They are taught in Coding and Computing lessons how to navigate the internet safely, while we also take part in annual cybersafety projects to make sure that the safe and appropriate use of ICT is always at the forefront of the boys' minds.
music technology work samples
Below you will find some examples of the boys' work, using music technology to add a soundtrack to films:
NCS ICT Network, VLE & Computer Rules
Pupils are responsible for good behaviour when using the School’s network. The VLE and internet are provided for pupils to conduct research in support of their studies and email may be provided to allow a reasonable amount of communication with others. By using the network, pupils agree to abide by the regulations set out in this policy. Access to the network should only be made via the user’s authorised account and password, which should not be made available to any other person.
No boy is permitted to:
- install or attempt to install programs of any type.
- use the network to access, download, send, print or otherwise transmit unlawful, obscene or inappropriate material
- post anonymous messages
- damage, disable or affect the current operation of computers.
- use the network for personal financial gain, gambling, political purposes or advertising.
- trespass in others’ folders, work or files.
- use the school’s computer system to play non-educational games, or use “chat” programs, social networking, bulletin boards or user groups.
- intentionally waste limited resources.
- use external hard drives or memory sticks which have not been checked for viruses before use.
- violate copyright laws
- give out personal details such as passwords, addresses or telephone numbers, either their own or other people’s.
All Internet and VLE activity should be for study purposes only unless otherwise authorised/supervised. Pupils are expected to respect the work and ownership rights of people outside the school as well as students and staff. In the interests of the protection of all pupils and the School’s IT operation, pupils should be aware that all computer activity is recorded and monitored by the IT Officer. Violations of these rules will result in withdrawal of access to IT resources and will result in disciplinary actions deemed appropriate by the school. Where applicable, police or local authorities may be involved, or other legal action taken.
ICT USE OUTSIDE SCHOOL : SOME GUIDELINES FOR PARENTS
We appreciate that most boys will have some access to computers/mobile phones/iPads at home so we hope the following suggestions may prove helpful.
Make sure the devices your children use is in an open area in your home.
Find out what internet filters you can put in place. Net Nanny www.netnanny.co.uk/ is a popular and effective option for home devices
Children should always let their parents know when entering a chatroom and it is worth reminding your children that most social networks such as Facebook do not permit under 13 year olds to use their sites.
When visiting a chatroom children should always use a nickname and never give out their real name, address, age, phone number, mobile phone, school, whether they are a girl or boy, and never send or publish their photos.
Some chatrooms or social networks will want to publish all or some personal information each time your children sign on in the chatroom. Others will allow them to create a profile just for publication on the web. Children should remain private!
Make sure your children know that not everyone in the chatroom is their age or even there for the same reason your children are. Some adults like to trick children.
If something worries or scares your children when in a chatroom they should report it to the chatroom provider immediately. They should save conversations if they are being bullied or harassed.
Children should report bad taste and nasty attitude messages in chatrooms to their parents and to the chatroom providers.
Children should never arrange to meet anyone they encounter online
All passwords should be kept private and never given out.
Children should not enter chatrooms for adults or for anyone over 18. Doing so is very dangerous.
Avoid children sending attachments. Attachments can spread viruses on your computer and do serious damage. When opening attachments, make sure children know the person who is sending you the attachment. Even when they know the sender, you can save it on your desktop and scan them with anti-virus software before you open them.
Make sure you discuss cyberbullying with your children. Let them know that if it happens to them, they should come to you and tell you. Let them know that even if all the other children are cyberbullying others, it is not appropriate behaviour.
The School is always pleased to discuss with these issues parents and children to re-inforce safe practice.