This information replaces several previous communication relating to digital devices and online services and their use within the school and during school- related activities. Please read the information carefully with your child before signing the agreement regarding digital devices and online services used within school.
A new policy governing student use of digital devices and online services will apply in all NSW public schools from January 1 2020. The new policy includes the digital device restriction for primary schools announced by the NSW Government in December 2018 in response to the review into mobile phone use in schools. This review recommends that the use of mobile phones are banned during school hours and on excursions for primary students. This recommendation aligns with our existing procedure and understanding that students may bring a personal mobile phone to school for safety reasons. The policy and resources aim to support us balance the learning, safety and wellbeing needs of our students when they use digital technology and online services.
At Beacon Hill Public School, we expect that when our students use digital mobile devices they do so in a manner that reflects the core values being taught in schools, including the values of respect, responsibility, care and fairness. Unfortunately, when these technologies are misused by students, it can be very disruptive to teaching and learning.
Beacon Hill Public School acknowledges that students may need to be in possession of a mobile telephone at school for reasons relating to their safety in travelling to and from school. If a student brings a mobile phone to school it is expected to be in their school bag and switched off whilst on school grounds. If a parent or caregiver needs to contact a student at school, they are required to call the school’s main office and a message will be sent to the student. If a student needs to make emergency contact with anyone they can do so through the school’s main office and with the permission of their class teacher.
Acceptable Usage Policy
In order to ensure that all students and teachers in public schools can be provided with safe, secure and quality access to the internet, the NSW Department of Education expects all staff and students to understand and abide by the Online Communications Services: acceptable usage policy.
We want to support our students when they’re at school by offering them safe, secure and quality access to the internet. The NSW Department of Education’s policy for Online Communication Services: acceptable usage for school students outlines the rights and responsibilities for staff and students whenever they are using the internet at a school or other Department of Education location.
As teachers and staff we are committed to developing responsible digital citzenship with our students so that they can use the internet and media devices respectfully, responsibly and safely. Our teachers will talk through the acceptable usage policy with their students, and work with them to draw links between policy, classroom expectations and school rules.
As parents we seek your support in communicating and reinforcing the expectations for using the internet at school with your child/ren. These internet permission notes are the school-level procedure, based on the department-wide policy, and acknowledge the school’s expectations for acceptable behaviour. It is important that you have a discussion with your child before signing their permission note.
Please read through the information provided in the following notes (which will be emailed as well as a hard copy sent home) with your child/ren.
- Digital devices and online services procedure updated for 2020
- Acceptable Use Agreement for Students and Parents to sign
- Media and E-learning platforms permission note
Please return these notes as soon as possible to your class teacher. Please see below for some handy cyber safety tips.
