Information Technology and Digital Citizenship

We view the use of technology as an essential pedagogical tool and beleive that digital citizenship and technology skills are learned best through a contextual approach. 

Students and parents must read and sign the Acceptable Use Policy detailing the expectations of using technology. This pertains to their iPads™, Chromebooks™ and personal devices, no matter where they use them or access the internet.

Mobile phones are not allowed on campus for students in PreK- Grade 4. For students in Grades 5-8, mobile phones must be turned off and placed in lockers as soon as students arrive for school. Phones must be kept in student lockers throughout the school day. 

Personal laptops and iPad computers are not permitted to be brought to school.

In PreK- Grade 4, each student has access to an iPad™ in their classroom. Device usasge is measured, with access to specific apps that will enhance learning. Students in Grades 3 and 4 also have access to a Chromebook™ to support more advanced word processing and work storage options. School devices stay at school. 

In Grades 5-8, teachers integrate the use of word processing, presentation software, video editing software, audio software, data logging software, and spreadsheets into academic classes. All students receive a Chromebook™ and protective case to use during the school year, as well as a TASIS England email account. Students must sign a Chromebook™ agreement and any damages incurred during the school year will be billed to the parents (including accidental damage).  

Students in Grades 5-8 will need to take their Chromebook™ home each night to complete homework and any outstnding tasks from the day. Students are asked to bring their Chromebook™ to school full charged. Students will also need to bring a set of headphones to school each day.

Throughout the year, students will have ample opportunities to learn how to stay safe online and how to use technology appropriately. Below are a few examples of how to be safe and smart when accessing the internet via a computer, phone, tablet, smartwatch, etc.

BE SAFE

• Make sure your privacy settings are at the highest possible setting, including location settings.

• Don’t give out private or personal information.

• Don’t share your passwords with anyone other than your parents.

• Treat your passwords like a toothbrush – change them regularly and frequently.

• Log out when you have finished using a website, even on your device.

• Trust your instincts. If something feels uncomfortable or wrong, tell your parents or a teacher.

BE SMART

• Remember, you are personally responsible for what you do and say online.

• Think before you send or post. Everything you post becomes part of your digital footprint. Don’t post anything you wouldn’t want your friends, parents, teachers, university admissions directors, or future employers to see.

• Do not share indecent images of yourself or others.

ALWAYS RESPECT OTHERS

• Do not cut/paste someone else’s words, images, videos, or ideas without permission.

• Respect copyright laws. Hyperlink to sources that support your thoughts or ideas.

• Write well. Use correct grammar, punctuation, vocabulary, and structure.

• Do not take, share, or post photos of other students without their express permission.

• The TASIS England Online Safety Policy prohibits recording peers or teachers without their permission.

• Do not participate in cyberbullying. This is not tolerated, even outside school hours. Cyberbullying risks disciplinary consequences. For further information, please refer to our Cyberbullying Policy in the TASIS England Online Safety Policy, which can be found here.

BE POSITIVE

• If you are the victim of or witness cyberbullying:

  • Block the bully

  • Do not reply or retaliate

  • Save the evidence by taking a screenshot

• Inform a trusted adult to seek advice and guidance.

  • Parent or Guardian

  • Advisor

  • Teacher

  • School Counselor

  • Administrator

  • House Parent (for boarders)

  • Student Voice Page

Contact Childline: 0800 1111

Visit the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) website

Visit the CEOP website for advice about staying safe when you’re online.