St Patrick's
Port Kembla
Port Kembla
A Catholic Parish Primary School
At St Patrick's, the use of Information, Communication and Learning Technologies (ICLT) are essential in the contemporary learning environment. Computers and other technologies are utilised extensively across the KLAs – in meaningful ways, to enhance learning.
Computers are regarded as valuable tools for learning, a source of research and a means of enhancing the presentation of work. In the past year, robotic devices have also been purchased for the children at St Patrick’s.
Our ICLT Coordinator works collaboratively with classroom teachers to ensure the widest possible use of technologies across the curriculum. Sessions planned for this purpose take place in classrooms. There are also opportunities during staff meetings for staff learning.
Each year, parents and carers are asked to sign our Consent Form for Use of Student's Image and/or Work which outlines procedures and covers the use of students' images for internet and other publications. Students and parents/carers are also asked to sign our Student Responsible Use of Technology Agreement, which covers the responsibilities of users and the school in using technology safely.
For more information, please read our ICLT Policy
Within the new Science and Technology syllabus, there is a requirement to incorporate digital technology into the teaching and learning experiences. One way that our school does this, is through incorporating Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) activities into our Science units. STEM lessons are also embedded across other KLAs where applicable. Each classroom is equipped with STEM kits which contain all necessary materials to design and make models to explore and solve real-world concepts and problems.
Our K-2 classes also have robotics packs in their classrooms. These packs contain bluetooth-enabled robots. The children use a Blue-Bot to code, debug and simulate algorithms. Young children use the buttons on top of the shell to program simple algorithms in order to make the robot move. In time, these children will be able to control the robot using an iPad to plan their algorithm and send it remotely to the Blue-Bot.
Our ICLT Coordinator works collaboratively with classroom teachers to ensure the widest possible utilisation of technology across the curriculum. Sessions are planned for the ICLT Coordinator to visit classrooms and teach the children how to use robotics. They also present during staff meetings and provide opportunities for staff learning.
Oliver is our school’s Library Management System. It is fully web-based, so the whole school community can access library resources including eBooks and Audiobooks. Simple, clear search options like dynamic picture searches help young students find books and other resources that appeal to them. They can also choose from a huge selection of background graphics and avatars to personalise their library experience.
Oliver means students and staff can also manage their loans and reservations — anywhere, anytime.
Access Oliver – our Library Management System here
Digital citizenship is a priority at St Patrick's, with all students participating in learning experiences that focus on being responsible and ethical users of technology.
Teachers use a range of resources developed by the Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong, the Office of the eSafety Commissioner and other online safety organisations, to assist in the ongoing education of our students in being safe and responsible digital citizens.
The CEDoW Digital Citizenship Program Site provides a program of resources for our students on digital citizenship.