Bring your own device.
Technology, used safely and well.

Key terms

• ICT means Information and Communication Technologies.
• Cybersafety means the safe, responsible and appropriate use of the internet and devices, including mobile phones.
• Cyberbullying means bullying through digital technology, such as hurtful comments on social media.
• School ICT means the school’s network, internet access, computers and other devices.
• Device means a privately owned laptop, iPad or tablet, without calling or texting features, used for learning.

Internet safety

• Every user is responsible for how they use the network and must avoid inappropriate content. Security or network problems must be reported to a teacher or administrator.
• On campus, only the school’s filtered internet may be used. Personal connections such as mobile data must not be used.
• The school uses filtering software to block harmful content and monitors online activity. Trying to get around the filter is a violation of this policy.
• Students should never share personal information such as their home address or phone number online.

Content and apps

• Students may be asked to download free apps that teachers use in class. Parents who prefer to supervise this can let the teacher know in writing.
• Inappropriate content must not be stored on any device brought to school.
• Social media and apps unrelated to learning may not be used during school hours.
• Devices must not have software that accesses illegal or inappropriate file-sharing sites.

Security and damage

• Each owner is responsible for their device. The school is not liable for stolen or damaged devices or lost data.
• Lost or damaged devices are handled by the administrative office, like any other personal item.
• School staff do not set up, troubleshoot or repair student devices.
• Protective cases with simple name labels are encouraged.
• School officials may inspect a device if there is reasonable suspicion that it has been used to break school rules.

Data and charging

• Students should use the school’s BYOD network, not personal data plans. Families are responsible for any data charges.
• The school’s Wi-Fi may not always be available, and signal strength can vary.
• Devices should come to school fully charged, as charging points may not be available.

Device requirements

Student agreement

Using technology at school is a privilege, not a right. When it is respected, it helps everyone learn. When it is misused, the privilege is taken away.

Roles and responsibilities

All users

• Register their device and sign the Use of Electronic Devices Agreement before joining the school network.
• Use devices in line with school policy.
• Look after, secure and store their devices.
• Keep accounts, passwords and lock codes private.
• Keep the learning environment safe and focused, and practise good digital citizenship.

School leaders

• Share this policy with everyone.
• Promote digital citizenship through the Code of Conduct and Internet Acceptable Use Policy.
• Respond to misuse and keep parents, staff and students informed.
• Explain how to connect devices to the school network.

Teachers

• Use devices in learning when they suit the curriculum.
• Decide when students may use school or personal devices.
• Supervise device use and respond to misuse.

Students

• Use devices for learning only, in approved places and under supervision.
• Keep virus and malware protection on their devices.
• Report any misuse to a teacher straight away.
• Bring devices charged, and keep learning another way if a device fails.

Parents

• Help their child look after and transport their device safely.
• Help their child keep passwords and accounts private.
• Label the device and note its make, model and serial number.
• Consider insurance against damage or theft.
• Encourage their child to follow this policy.
• Contact the school office, not their child’s device, in an emergency during the school day.
• Take responsibility for any unauthorised use of mobile networks.

Not allowed

• Using devices in private areas such as changing rooms or washrooms.
• Getting around the school network to use outside internet connections.
• Downloading files unrelated to learning.
• Games, videos, social media, music, texting or personal calls.
• Cheating on assignments or tests.
• Accessing confidential information.
• Using photos or recordings for anything other than school work.
• Accessing, changing or deleting data without permission.
• Cyberbullying: using technology to embarrass, harass, threaten or target anyone.
• Spreading viruses or harmful programs.
• Breaking copyright or plagiarising.

Policy review

This is a working document and is updated every year by the Policy Review Committee: the Head of School, the Programme Coordinators and the school’s IT department.

Last reviewed January 2024. Next review April 2025.

Sources

1. TechnoKids, BYOD policy for schools

Questions about this policy? Write to admission@thepupil.in or call +91 98848 89910.

Other MYP & DP policies

• Admissions
• Inclusion
• Language
• Academic Integrity
• Assessment

See the PYP policies