At Donvale Primary School, digital technologies are used thoughtfully to support learning, creativity and connection. iPads are one of the tools we use to enhance teaching and learning, alongside explicit instruction, hands-on experiences and rich classroom interaction.
Our iPad program is designed to be developmentally appropriate, safe and purposeful, ensuring technology supports learning rather than replacing it.
The iPad program has two components, depending on year level:
Students in Prep to Year 2 access shared class sets of iPads. These are used under teacher guidance to support literacy, numeracy and classroom learning as part of the normal daily program.
At this stage, iPads are used for:
phonics, reading and number activities
practising and consolidating skills
creative tasks such as drawing, recording and sharing learning
Students do not require their own device in Prep–2.
From Years 3 to 6, students participate in a 1:1 iPad program, where each student has access to their own iPad for learning at school and home.
In these year levels, iPads become an integral part of learning and are used to:
create and edit written work
demonstrate understanding in multiple ways
access digital learning platforms
collaborate, research and present ideas
support organisation and independence
Technology is always used with clear purpose, alongside explicit teaching and strong classroom routines.
We recommend students have access to an iPad with:
Wi-Fi capability (no SIM card)
sufficient storage for school applications
Families may choose the model that best suits them. Students may continue to use an iPad they already own, provided it meets basic functionality requirements. The school will have devices available for any student who requires one during learning time.
No. A new device is not required if your child already has a suitable iPad. Many devices are available at school as we phase-out the Bring Your Own Device program.
No. iPads used at school must not have active SIM cards. Devices connect to the school’s secure wireless network during the day.
Yes. Students in Years 3–6 take their iPad home each night to:
complete homework tasks
continue learning projects
recharge the device
We recommend iPads are stored in a protective case inside the school bag when travelling to and from school.
No. For safety and security reasons, iPads remain locked inside classrooms during breaks.
Yes. The school’s internet connection is filtered and monitored to support safe and appropriate use.
Students are explicitly taught:
digital citizenship
online safety
responsible and respectful technology use
Students can use many apps without internet access. However, home Wi-Fi is recommended to support homework, research and cloud backup.
Students will still be supported using:
classroom devices
alternative school technology
No student is disadvantaged if a device is unavailable on a particular day.
Students and families sign a Digital Learning Agreement outlining expectations for appropriate use.
The school provides a list of recommended apps, most of which are free. Where purchases are required, we recommend using App Store gift cards rather than storing credit card details. School-supplied devices will have all necessary apps pre-loaded by our technician.
General Learning
Seesaw
Google Earth
Dropbox
Literacy
Pages
Keynote
iMovie
Book Creator
Numeracy
Numbers
Mathletics
Calculator
Creative & Specialist Areas
GarageBand
Sphero Edu
Languages (Mandarin)
Chinese Writer
KT Dictionary
Students can back up their work using:
iCloud (optional)
a home computer via Apple software
Teachers also support students to save and submit work through school platforms such as Seesaw.
At Donvale Primary School, technology:
supports learning goals
complements explicit teaching
builds independence and creativity
is used safely and responsibly
We remain committed to ensuring students develop strong foundational skills alongside digital competence.
If you have any questions about the iPad program, please contact the school office or speak with your child’s teacher.
