Cellphones and Digital Devices

Personal Devices, in particular Cellphones

Personal Digital Devices Policy (Specifically Cellphones)

Statement:   Gorge Road School actively discourages students from bringing personal devices to school. These are not needed during the day in classroom programmes. However we understand that some parents like their children to have a device to communicate with them after school and the following is our expectation.

Parent/Caregiver and student responsibilities

If a student brings a personal digital device to our school, the following guidelines apply:

·      Any personal device will be turned off and handed into the  office at the beginning of the day. It can be collected from the duty teacher at the end of the day.

·      EOTC Students may be permitted to take devices on EOTC activities but must check with the supervising teacher two days prior to the event whether their device is allowed.

If a parent/caregiver needs to contact their child urgently during the day, they should call the office.

The school does not accept responsibility for lost, damaged, or stolen devices brought to the school, but will investigate any issues, as appropriate.

Inappropriate use

If a student uses a device inappropriately it will be confiscated until the end of the day, or for the duration of the event, as appropriate.

Inappropriate use of a personal digital device may include:

·                using the device when not permitted

·                bullying of any sort

·                taking photos or videos of people without their permission

·                sendng inappropriate messages or content.

Students are expected to follow our  Internet Agreement policy when using personal digital devices on school property or at school events.

Approved 12 Feb 2024