Acceptable Use Policy
The aim of this Acceptable Use Policy is to ensure that pupils will benefit from learning opportunities offered by the school’s Internet resources in a safe and effective manner. Internet use and access is considered a school resource and privilege. Therefore, if the school AUP is not adhered to this privilege will be withdrawn and appropriate sanctions – as outlined in the AUP – will be imposed.
It is envisaged that school and parent representatives will revise the AUP regularly in line with developing technological issues . Before signing, the AUP should be read carefully to ensure that the conditions of use are accepted and understood.
The original version of the AUP was created on the 11/03/09, reviewed in 2012, 2014 and again in 2017.
This version was reviewed by Parent representatives from the Parent’s Association and the Board of Management.
This version was reviewed by the Principal, Staff, Parents’ Association, Board of Management, Parent’s IT Committee, and Pupil’s IT Committee and will be subsequently reviewed as issues and matters arise relating to the acceptable use of IT.
This policy is to be read in conjunction with our Anti-bullying policy which also deals with the issue of cyberbullying.
School’s Strategy:
The school employs a number of strategies in order to maximise learning opportunities and reduce risks associated with the Internet. These strategies are as follows:
General:
World Wide Web
Internet Chat
School Website: www.glencullenschool.ie
St. Patrick’s N.S. Twitter account
The purpose having of a school Twitter account is to provide;
St. Patrick’s N.S. Facebook page StPatricks_Glencullen
Updated September 2017
The purpose having of a school Facebook page is to provide;
Those using our social networking site must abide by the following;
The sanction for breaking these rules is automatic removal from our Facebook page.
Personal Devices
Under our Mobile Phone and Electronic Gadgets Policy, personal devices are not allowed in school without the expressed permission of the class teacher and the written permission & indemnification of the parents. This occurs during exceptional circumstances and/or project work such as the Irish Aid Awards.
Pupils using their own technology in school, such as leaving a mobile phone turned on or using it in class, sending nuisance text messages, or the unauthorized taking of images with a mobile phone camera, still or moving is in direct breach of the school’s Acceptable Use Policy. (see Mobile Phone and Electronic Gadgets Policy, Code of Behaviour & Anti-Bullying policy)
Legislation
The school will provide information on the following legislation relating to use of the Internet which teachers, students and parents should familiarise themselves with:
Support Structures
The school will inform students and parents of key support structures and organisations that deal with illegal material or harmful use of the Internet. This information will be available at Internet Safety talks throughout the year.
Sanctions
Misuse of the Internet may result in disciplinary action, including written warnings, withdrawal of access privileges and, in extreme cases, suspension or expulsion. The school also reserves the right to report any illegal activities to the appropriate authorities.
This policy has been reviewed regularly since 2009 and this current policy was reviewed in 2017.
Ratified by:________________ Date: ___________Permission Form
Pupils
Please review the attached school Internet Acceptable Use Policy, sign and return this permission form to the Principal, St Patrick’s N.S.
Name of Pupil:______________________
Class: ____________
Pupil
I agree to follow the school’s Acceptable Use Policy on the use of the Internet. I will use the Internet in a responsible way and obey all the rules explained to me by the school.
Pupil’s Signature:_________________________ Date:_____________
Parent/Guardian
As the parent or legal guardian of the above pupil, I have read the Acceptable Use Policy and grant permission for my son or daughter or the child in my care to access the Internet. I understand that Internet access is intended for educational purposes. I also understand that every reasonable precaution has been taken by the school to provide for online safety but the school cannot be held responsible if pupils access unsuitable websites.
Signature:_________________________ Date: ____________________
In relation to the school website, I accept that, if the school considers it appropriate, my child’s schoolwork may be chosen for inclusion on the website. I understand and accept the terms of the Acceptable Use Policy relating to publishing children’s work on the school website.
Signature: ________________________ Date:________________
Address: _______________________ Telephone:_______________
_________________________
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