Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

Our overall aim is to fully exploit ICT as a teaching and learning tool in order to improve levels of achievement and rates of progress. Consequently the school ICT strategy encourages innovation, and that good practise is embedded on a school wide basis.

The ICT department is lead by a Director of ICT Services, supported by a Data Manager and Technician. A network links all sectors of the school site, from Pre-Nursery to Year 8, and e-portal facility allow for distance learning.

Facilities range from purpose built ICT suites to interactive technology as standard in all classrooms.

Children from Nursery onwards are taught to use computers, digital cameras and interactive technologies.

From Year 2 to Year 5 the boys and girls have timetabled ICT lessons. They are taught how to master the basic competencies and applications of using a computer, obtaining information from CD Roms, the internet etc.

From Year 6 onwards ICT is integrated within the curriculum.

The Director of Studies co-ordinates the teaching and assessment of pupils use of ICT across all subjects in the curriculum and ensures that all pupils have reached the minimum standard of entitlement to enable them to participate fully in the curriculum.

 Topics of Study

1. Computers and Networks
   1. Loading, saving and printing
   2. Components, including networks
   3. Folders, filenames and formats
   4. Keyboard skills
   5. Help and problem solving
   6. Operating systems and applications
2. Communicating Information
   1. Word processing
   2. Text layout
   3. Page layout
   4. E-mail
   5. Software and websites
3. Finding and Developing Information
   1. Multimedia CD ROMs
   2. On-line resources (via the internet)
   3. Databases
4. Modelling, Measurement and Control
   1. Spreadsheets
   2. Data-logging
   3. Control and feedback
   4. Use of control in daily routines
   5. Planning and developing instructions
5. Applications and Effects
   1. Health and safety
   2. Data protection
   3. Social implications
   4. Appropriate uses, benefits and disadvantages
6. Graphics
   1. Drawing/objects vs. painting/pixels
   2. File formats
   3. Tools and effects
   4. Sources of images