OUR DIGITAL STRATEGY
the future is digital
Technology is a defining part of modern life, and our digital strategy is designed to harness its power to enhance learning, spark creativity, and prepare students for the future – while always prioritising safety and wellbeing.
Our students are digital natives, so we meet them where they are, helping them use technology – from devices to AI – wisely, creatively and responsibly. At the same time, we keep vital skills like handwriting, focused reading and geniune human interaction at the heart of school life, ensuring technology enhances rather than replaces the foundations of great learning.
MOBILE PHONE POLICY
It is our strong belief that a phone-free learning environment is hugely beneficial, promoting face-to-face interaction, improving focus and benefitting mental health. We were one of the first schools to adopt Yondr pouches; an innovative and secure system which requires students from Year 7 to Year 11 to lock their phones into pouches which they keep with them through the school day, unlocking them as they leave. Student reaction has been extremely positive – many say it has improved their friendships and allowed them to feel free of the pull of their mobile phone.
Mobile phones are not permitted at our Junior School. Sixth Formers may use their phones responsibly and within the Sixth Form Centre only.
APPLE SCHOOL
We are a fully integrated Apple school. Every Junior School pupil from Year 2 has access to iPad-based learning, while at the Senior School, students use iPads provided by the school to enhance learning, creativity and collaboration. We take a balanced, hybrid approach, using technology to complement written work, not replace it.
While students are responsible for their iPads on a day-to-day basis, they are managed, maintained and owned by the school.
LAPTOPS
When students reach Sixth Form, they can continue using their iPads or bring in their own devices from home, with network and accessibility support from our IT department.
Discounts and financial support for laptop purchase are available to ensure no student experiences technological barriers to her learning.
DIGITAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING
Digital literacy goes hand in hand with digital responsibility. Through PSHE lessons and across the curriculum, we teach students how to navigate the online world with confidence, safety and critical awareness.
We take a proactive approach to online safety, teaching students the skills to think critically about what they see online, and encouraging them to question digital content. Civil discourse and respectful online behaviour are a core part of our values and are proactively taught at Year 7.
We encourage screen-free time outside the classroom, supporting healthy digital habits.
computing, AI & education
We believe that artificial intelligence needs more diversity of voice, thinking and skills – currently only 12% of people working in AI globally are women, and just 17% of digital jobs in the UK are filled by women. With so much space for innovation, critical thinking and creativity, we are educating our girls to become the AI champions and changemakers of the future.
From Reception onwards, students learn to be confident creators and critical users of technology, with Computer Science a core part of the Senior School curriculum. Girls and staff are encouraged to explore AI through an ethical, responsible and creative lens, supported by dedicated teaching on digital citizenship.
Our teachers play a leading role across the GDST through the Trust’s AI Committee, shaping national policy and supporting meaningful, safe classroom use. Events like our AI & Gaming Conference bring the future into focus, connecting students with industry leaders – from coders and composers to legal and tech experts – and opening their eyes to the fast-changing world of emerging careers. For the 60% of students who will one day work in jobs that don’t yet exist, this education is genuinely transformative.
WHERE NEXT?
