Increasingly the school will be providing pupils with laptops or other portable computer devices which will be used in pupils' homes.  Whilst we are able to minimise the risks when pupils are on the school campus, we have far less control away from the school.  Therefore there is a need to issue parents with guidance to reduce the risks to the health and safety of their children.

Sadly, as the use of computers and mobile phones has increased so has cyberbullying.  Parents and guardians need to be aware of this issue and to raise any concerns with the school as soon as possible.

Increased use of visual display units (VDU's) may cause upper limb disorders.  The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have published guidance on this and we urge parents and pupils to read this document.  We have also produced a short document of our own.

advice on the safe use of laptop computers

Using computers can have enormous educational benefits but there are also potential risks from using webcams, searching on the internet, using blogs, searching for images etc.  BECTA (the government agency for using technology in teaching and learning) has produced some excellent guidance on these issues and we strongly recommend that you read the advice given.

Pupils should also follow the school's acceptable use policy.

acceptable use policy 

A small number of pupils in Year 7 have been provided with laptops this year under the Computers for Pupils initiative.  Specific guidance relating to these laptops is provided through the menu on the right or by clicking here.