Talk to school
Questions for parents to ask
1 in 4 schools uses technology effectively. What about your child’s school?
As a parent, you want to know that your child’s school is making the most of technology for teaching and learning. And for keeping in touch with you. A good place to start is by finding out about the school’s policy and practices for technology.
There are different ways to find out. For instance, you could:
• speak to a teacher during parents’ evening or an open day
• read the school’s newsletter or website or
• access the school’s learning platform.
If you’re a school governor or PTA member, you can discuss what the school’s doing or planning when you meet.
Questions to ask
Use the list below to help you ask your child’s school relevant questions about technology. To help you gauge their effectiveness, we’ve given some good practice guidance. For more examples, take a look at some of our case studies.
Q: How does my child use technology at school?
Using technologies like learning platforms and educational websites helps pupils of all ages and abilities engage more closely with their teachers, their course work and the wider school community Also, using technology well in the classroom can help children to:
• learn at their own pace and style
• feel more motivated as they are having fun
• be more creative and independent in their learning
• improve their speaking, listening, reading and writing skills.
There’s also good evidence to suggest that children who are encouraged to use technology do significantly better than expected. For example:
• Schools that use technology well across the curriculum and wider school life have reduced absence rates and achieve a higher percentage of A*-C grades at GCSE.
• Pupils studying Key Stage 2 maths, science and English in schools that make the best use of technology improve at twice the rate of the national average.
• When young people use technology to support their learning at home they do better in national tests.
Q: Does my child use technology across all subjects?
The national curriculum requires schools to use ICT across all subjects.
Q: How are interactive whiteboards used in the school?
Interactive whiteboards allow teachers and pupils to manipulate, reorder, save and share images, objects, text and animation. They are used most effectively when whole classes interact with the same content at the same time.
Q: What extra opportunities are available outside of class hours?
Computer clubs or access out of class can boost interest and confidence in using technology. This can support school work and homework.
Q: Can my child access school work from home?
Schools using technology most effectively offer an online ‘learning platform’. This gives pupils secure access to learning materials, and lets them store work, submit homework, email and take part in discussions – all online.
Q: How do I know that my child is using the technology safely?
All schools should have an Acceptable Use Policy (AUP). This clearly sets out the responsibilities of the learners and teachers when using technology in school. You can talk to the school to understand what children learn about staying safe online. And get tips on how you can support your child in using technology safely in the home.
Q: How can I support my child’s learning at home?
Some teachers tell you what topics are being studied so you can help your child find online information and resources. They may also have a list of recommended websites or resources to help with school work. Ask what programs are used in school and whether you can use or view these at home.
Q: Can I get information online about my child’s progress and wellbeing?
All schools should be starting to offer secure information for parents online. Schools are using various technologies including the school website, emails, text messaging and learning platform. Schools should explain how they will inform you about attendance and behaviour issues as well as your child’s progress and achievements.
Getting more involved
Different schools are likely to be at different stages along the journey toward using technology for communicating with you. If your school has just started there is a lot you can do to help.
Ask your school:
Q: How do you plan to use technology to communicate with parents?
Q: Do you need parents to help you pilot such schemes?
Q: Will you give us any training on technology?
Next Generation Learning Charter
Next time you visit your child’s school, look to see if they are displaying the Next Generation Learning Charter mark. The Charter is a four-step process that schools can sign up to which helps them structure their approach and achieve the national standard in ICT for schools.
You can also use the postcode locator on this website to see whether your child’s school is following the Charter. If it isn’t, mention it to one of your child’s teachers. It’s a great tool for them.
School offers
Next Generation Learning teams up with partners, such as Tesco, who regularly run initiatives or competitions for equipment for schools. Sign up as a parent supporter to be the first to know about the latest offers and then encourage your child’s school to take part.
Share their success
Sign up or sign in as a supporter and use the upload tool to share the success story of a school you’re connected with. We’ll contact them to discuss their preferred way of telling their story.