USE OF ICT FACITLTIES

The school has a network of over 370 computers available for student use.  Every student has access to the Internet and a certain amount of hard disc space available for storing their work.  The network has an Internet filter system.  Each student will be given an e-mail address which will be username@grammar.sch.gg.  The e-mail system is also filtered and the unsuitable mail goes to the administrator to deal with.  It is each student’s responsibility to ensure they use these facilities safely, sensibly and for the enhancement of their learning.  In order to help them do this the school has an acceptable use policy, an example of which is attached. 

During their first Information and Communication Technology lesson, their ICT teacher will go over this document explaining each section and what is expected of the student.  The teacher will also discuss the sensible use of e-mail and the types of e-mail that the school considers unacceptable.  In lessons the safe use of e-mail and the Internet are also covered.  The student will be then asked to sign a copy of the acceptable use policy saying they agree to abide by it, with the understanding that, if they break it the privilege of using the ICT facilities will be restricted or taken away from them.  This lesson will be repeated at the beginning of every academic year and students will be expected to sign the current acceptable use policy before being able to use the network.  The reason for this is twofold.  Firstly it is a reminder to all students of the standards expected of them and secondly as ICT is a rapidly changing environment the acceptable use policy needs to change slightly each year accordingly.

In addition to this our school network is also accessible from home via a secure portal.  Students will be shown how to access this.  I would ask you to monitor their use of this facility at home and ensure that they adopt acceptable ways of working.

I would be very grateful if you would take time to read the exampleStudent Acceptable Use Agreement and if you do not wish your son or daughter to sign the document, please contact the school to this effect.

The ICT suites are available for student use at break, lunchtime and after school, when the acceptable use policy is still applicable.

The new XP system allows the use of memory sticks not requiring specific drivers or software.  However, it is essential that students use these in a responsible manner.

If you have any queries do not hesitate to contact me at school before the end of this term.

Thank you

Valerie Winn
e-learning Co-ordinator