Goldsmith Primary Academy, Goldsmith Road, Harden, Walsall, WS3 1DL
Part of Windsor Academy Trust
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121 digital learning faqs

FAQs

Please see below FAQs about the 1:1 digital learning approach. If you have any questions that aren’t answered in these FAQs, please contact us directly on 01922 710182

What is our 1:1 digital learning approach?

Our 1:1 digital learning approach provides all students in Years 4 to 10 with their own iPad to use in school and at home. Taking place across all schools in the Windsor Academy Trust family, the devices are provided free of charge as part of our digital learning strategy and commitment to unlocking academic and personal potential.

Why are devices provided free of charge?

We strongly believe digital learning has been central in providing students with the best experiences to maximise their learning and progress. We are extremely pleased with the impact and success that 1:1 devices have made on learning and development and are delighted to be able to support families by providing the devices for free to help students unlock their academic and personal potential.

What impact has 1:1 digital learning had on teaching and learning?

Introducing 1:1 devices into our curriculum has transformed the way we teach, and how our students learn. We have seen how using digital resources continues to increase student engagement and inspire creativity.

The 1:1 digital learning approach  has: 

  • Improved students’ maths, English and communication skills
  • Developed essential digital skills required for students’ future careers
  • Brought topics and knowledge to life in visual and creative ways
  • Made learning more engaging and relevant to students by teaching using media and technology they are familiar with
  • Enhanced marking, assessment and feedback for students

We strongly believe digital learning is integral to providing students with the best opportunity to maximise their learning and progress. 

What device will my child be using?

All students will use an iPad. This device is fully compatible with our school systems, has access to essential apps and learning resources for teaching and learning, and is covered by a bespoke, internal warranty and insurance plan.

Lessons are planned on the basis that each student has the same device, and students can use their device at school and at home.

What apps will my child be using?

Your child's iPad will have a variety of learning apps automatically downloaded onto their device. These apps have been chosen to accelerate their learning across the curriculum and can be used at both school and home.

You can also download entertainment apps for your child to use outside of learning. These apps include streaming services such as BBC iPlayer and Netflix.

The approved entertainment apps are age-appropriate, and you can view a complete list of apps here

You will have control over which entertainment apps your child has access to, as you will be able to download them to your child’s iPad or remove them if preferred.

Can my child use their device in school and at home?

Yes. Every child takes their device home with them so that they can use it to enhance their home learning. This includes taking it home during the school holidays. Students are responsible for ensuring that their device is fully charged overnight and is ready for the beginning of each school day.  

Does my child get to keep the device?

No. You will need to return the device by the end of the programme or when your child leaves our school.

The exception to this is if you have a current parental contribution arrangement, then your child can keep their device at the end of the programme. 

When will I need to return the device?

Devices will need to be returned to us at the end of your child’s time at our school. This is at the end of Year 11. If your child leaves our school before this time, they will need to return the device.

What are my responsibilities as a parent/carer?

We ask that you ensure that your child cares for and respects their device as they would with any school equipment they use and use their iPad responsibly, safely and respectfully at school and home.

You can find full details of what is expected in the Acceptable Use Agreement under the 'Parent/Carer Agreement' section.

What are my child's responsibilities?

Your child is responsible for taking good care of their device, keeping it safe and cares for and respects their device as they would with any school equipment they use.

You can find full details of what is expected of your child in the Acceptable Use Agreement under the 'Student Agreement' section.

Will insurance, safeguarding software and apps be included on the device?

Yes, all existing software and apps that are required will be included on the device.

Like other school equipment, the iPads are insured against accidental damage and theft. However, if your child's device is damaged on multiple occasions, you may have to make a contribution to the cost of repair or replacement.

What happens if my child’s device is lost or damaged?

If your child‘s device is lost or damaged, it must be reported immediately by emailing the IT service desk at postbox@goldsmith.windsoracademytrust.org.uk or phoning 01922 710182 during 8am-4pm.

If your child loses their iPad, it will be locked and tracked. This makes the device unusable and will help us find your child's iPad.

If your child's iPad is damaged and needs repairing, we will aim to provide a loan device for the duration of the repair or replacement.

Students are responsible for good care of their iPad and keeping it safe. We ask that you ensure that your child cares for and respects their device as they would with any school equipment they use.

We provide a robust protective case for the iPad and guidance on how to care for the device. We will not replace the device if it is clear that it has been maliciously damaged and will recover the full cost of the iPad from parents/carers.

What happens if my child’s device is stolen?

If your child‘s device is stolen, it must be reported as stolen immediately by emailing contractsupport@jigsaw24.com or phoning 0333 240 9203 during business hours. If you need support with this process, please contact a senior leader in the school.

The device will then be locked and tracked. This makes the device unusable and will help us find your child's iPad.

If the device was stolen when away from school, then you need to also report the theft to the police and provide the crime number to the school and the IT service desk. The IT service desk will provide location information obtained from the device lost or stolen mode to the police.

If the device is unable to be retrieved, then we will use this crime number to make a claim for a replacement device under the insurance policy.