ICTInformation and Communication Technology (ICT) is a subject in schools that is undergoing continual and rapid evolution. This is a reflection of Moore's Law (that processing power doubles every 18 months) and the speed with which the market-place generates new ways of living, working and communicating. It has led Government to impose demanding targets on all schools, whether state or independent, to make sure that today's children are equipped to be able to operate successfully in tomorrow's world. ICT has developed from a point [ten] years ago when it was barely recognised as an academic curriculum subject through a period when it was taught as a discrete subject throughout the school to the current position when it is taught in this way only in Pre-Prep. Now, as soon as children progress to the Junior Prep department, ICT becomes an integrated part of almost every subject. ICT teaching is supported by a specialist teacher but is now embedded throughout the entire curriculum to enable pupils to use applications and programs as essential tools for furthering their learning. We have recently replaced the school web-site and designed into it access to a Children's Portal and a Parent Portal. The latter is focused on providing parents with important daily and termly information about their children and their activities. The Children's Portal, which embodies the Moodle environment, provides 24/7 access to homework and course materials. We have no doubt that 'cloud computing' is just over the horizon and much of children's access to information will depend on electronic access. The school has two fully-equipped computer suites which are used for some lessons in most subjects. All classrooms have their own interactive whiteboard. We have also developed a dedicated Multimedia and Publishing suite within the Art Department which is available for a range of uses within the curriculum. Tina Goddings, Head of ICT |
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