Digital Devices
‘Digital Strategy’, is the term we use to describe our increasing use of technology to deliver and reinforce teaching and learning, and the necessary hardware – specifically standardised digital devices – needed to facilitate this in and out of school. There are many benefits that technology can bring to how our students engage in learning, organise themselves and achieve better outcomes. Similarly, technology has many uses in supporting high quality teaching. As part of this, we are engaging with AI to ensure that its power can be harnessed to positive effect.
All students in the Senior School are issued with a one-to-one Surface Pro and there are shared class sets of Surface Go devices in the Junior School.
Suffice to say, we are excited about the opportunities and benefits, however our Digital Strategy is about so much more than the physical hardware; it is about the continuing evolution of our teaching and learning, making sure that we retain the best of traditional teaching, while accessing the growing technological advancements that can aide our children’s development for the 21st Century.
Key information for families
LOAN AGREEMENT
When students receive their device they are required to read our loan agreement (below) and sign this form to confirm.
Kit supplied
Students are issued with a Surface Pen, Charger, Keyboard and a Case. Any lost or damaged accessories must be bought through school and could incur a replacement charge, pens are £30, cases £35, keyboards £115 and chargers £70 (prices may be subject to change and are a guide).
Surface Care
Surface devices must be looked after at all times. It is the students responsibility to make sure,
- The device is stored safely in their locker during break times before or after school
- They report any damage or loss of the device IMMEDIATELY to the IDT support team.
- They use their device responsibly in accordance to the Acceptable Use Policy.
Insurance
Our insurance will cover Accidental Damage and Theft to the Surface Device ONLY. The policy does NOT include any of the accessories. Any damage to the device due to misuse or lack of care could result in an excess charge. 1st Excess payment £50 and any subsequent excess £150.
Charging
Students should find a space at home to keep and charge their device. Preferably not in their bedroom. Student devices should be fully charged ready for their day at school. Charging lockers are available for students to use during the day.
Required bag
To ensure the device is properly looked after, an appropriate school bag will be needed.
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To ensure the device is properly looked after, an appropriate school bag will be needed.The bag must be able to be closed, made of a suitable fabric and contain sufficient padding to minimise any impact damage. A padded sleeve could also be used.
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The Surface Pro dimensions are 287 x 208 x 9.3 mm / 11.3 x 8.19 x 0.37 inches (approximately 30cm x 21 cm); whilst a built-in laptop compartment is advised.
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The bag needs to safely accommodate the supplied device and a charger, along with other books and resources for a day at school.
Headphones
Students are expected to have a set of headphones to use in lessons.
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The Surface Pro 8 device still has a standard audio jack, therefore normal wired, Bluetooth or wired USB C headphones will work.
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There will be personal preferences when it comes to choosing headphones, therefore, the school will not be issuing standardised headphones.
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If you would like further advice on headphones then do get in touch with it.support@rgs.newcastle.sch.uk.
Pen Batteries
Replacement batteries and nibs will be needed for the Surface Pen.
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Students are issued with a Classroom Surface Pen. Sometimes the batteries that are supplied can run out quicker than expected.
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It is worth each student having some spare batteries for their surface pen in their pencil case.
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The pens take AAAA batteries and can be purchased in most high street shops.
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A pack of two batteries will last each student a year.
FAQs
Teaching and Learning
- How will the devices be used in lessons?
- Will the device be used in every lesson?
- How will handwriting be impacted?
- How important is typing speed?
- What does the use of devices mean for the use of textbooks and paper resources in school?
- How will this development prepare students for their future?
- What might be the impact on behaviour management?
How will the devices be used in lessons?
Will the device be used in every lesson?
How will handwriting be impacted?
How important is typing speed?
What does the use of devices mean for the use of textbooks and paper resources in school?
How will this development prepare students for their future?
What might be the impact on behaviour management?
Wellbeing and safeguarding
- How does the introduction of devices fit with the school’s wellbeing strategy?
- How will my child be kept safe?
- Will students be on a screen all day?
- Will students be able to access social media on their device?
How does the introduction of devices fit with the school’s wellbeing strategy?
How will my child be kept safe?
Will students be on a screen all day?
Will students be able to access social media on their device?
The following questions refer only to the provision of devices in the Senior School
Practicalities for Senior School students
- Who owns and manages the device?
- Will my child have the option to purchase the device when they leave RGS?
- Bringing the device to and from school
- What happens if the device is damaged, lost or stolen?
- Will the devices be charged at school?
- What technical support will be given to students at school?
- Can the device be used at home?
- Can the device be used for personal use?
- Will we need Wi-Fi at home?
- Does my child still need another computer at home for school work?