Technology
At The Edinburgh Academy, we take a thoughtful and balanced approach to the use of technology in education. Our aim is to support high quality teaching and learning while ensuring pupils develop the digital skills, independence and organisation they will need for the future.
We recognise that many families have understandable concerns about screen time. Our approach is deliberately measured: technology is used where it adds clear value, not as a default. Across all year groups, there remains a significant amount of offline learning, including written work, discussion, collaboration and practical activities.
Mobile phones are not permitted for use during the school day.
If you would like advice on choosing a device or have any questions about any aspect of our provision, please contact parents.ict@edinburghacademy.org.uk. We are always happy to help.
Junior School (Primary 1–6)
From Primary 1 to Primary 4, pupils use a range of shared, age-appropriate technologies within the classroom to support learning in a natural and balanced way. Access to devices increases gradually, and technology is used only where it has a clear and purposeful impact on learning.
From Primary 5 onwards, each pupil is issued with a school managed iPad as part of our 1:1 device programme. A technology supplement applies to this provision; details can be found in the school fees section.
Devices are introduced in a structured and supportive environment, helping pupils to develop responsible digital habits alongside their academic work.
Allowing devices to come home is an important part of this approach. It gives parents valuable insight into their child’s learning, supports conversations about schoolwork, and helps pupils build positive routines across both school and home.
All iPads are managed using Apple School Manager and Jamf Mobile Device Management, ensuring they are secure, appropriately configured and ready for use.
School issued iPads have restrictions in place at all times, both in school and at home. These are designed to:
- Support focus and wellbeing
- Ensure age-appropriate use
- Promote safe and responsible digital habits
At home, parents can use the Jamf Parent App to:
- Adjust app access
- Set time-based controls
- Tailor usage to suit their family routines
If you feel your family would benefit from greater flexibility in how devices are managed at home, please contact us at parents.ict@edinburghacademy.org.uk to discuss this.
Apps are accessed through the EA App Portal, ensuring that all software is appropriate and supports learning.
Pupils are made aware of the responsibilities around looking after school devices. Pupils are expected to bring their device to school each day fully charged and ready for use. Acceptable Use policies are discussed and agreed with pupils. All damages and repairs are handled by the school.
Senior School (Geits/P7–7ths/S6)
From Geits to Thirds, pupils continue to use school managed iPads, providing consistency in their digital learning environment and supporting the development of organisation, collaboration and independent study skills.
During this time, pupils make increasing use of Microsoft 365, including Teams, OneNote and OneDrive, building key productivity skills.
From Fourths onwards, pupils move to a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) model. As academic demands increase, a laptop provides greater flexibility for extended writing, coursework and exam preparation.
We recommend:
- A Windows or Apple laptop – Chromebooks are not supported
- A device no more than three years old
Some subjects (such as Computing, Art or Photography) may provide additional guidance.
Although we will help when we can, families remain responsible for the maintenance, insurance and safe transport of personal devices.
Platforms, Security and Support
Pupils across the school use a range of platforms to support learning and communication, including:
- Microsoft 365 (email, Teams, OneNote, OneDrive)
- Showbie (Junior School learning and feedback)
- iSAMS Parent Portal (key school information)
- SOCS (sports and activities)
- SchoolCloud (parents’ evenings)
All systems are carefully vetted for GDPR compliance, and school networks include filtering and security protections to safeguard pupils.
School managed devices are supported through our ICT team and local repair partners to minimise disruption. Replacement devices are provided where appropriate, and any costs for damage or missing accessories may be charged to families.
The technology supplement for our 1:1 iPad programme supports the provision and management of devices and associated services. Updated costs are available on the school website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Device Use & Practicalities
What happens if my child forgets their device?
Pupils are expected to bring their device, fully charged, to school each day. If this does happen, teachers will make reasonable adjustments, but repeated instances may be followed up to support better organisation.
How should devices be brought to school?
iPads should be transported in the protective case provided by the school and kept securely in a school bag when not in use. Laptops should be protected with an appropriate case. Pupils are responsible for the care of their device during the school day.
Does my child need to bring their device fully charged?
Yes. Pupils are expected to bring their device to school fully charged each day to support uninterrupted learning.
Learning & Classroom Use
How often are devices used during the school day?
Device use varies depending on the subject and lesson. Technology is used where it enhances learning, but all subjects continue to include discussion, written work and offline activities.
Will my child still develop handwriting skills?
Yes. Handwriting remains an important part of learning, particularly in the Junior School, and pupils continue to complete a significant amount of written work by hand.
How do teachers monitor what pupils are doing on their devices?
Teachers actively supervise device use during lessons and use classroom management strategies to ensure pupils remain focused and on task.
Safeguarding & Online Safety
How is my child kept safe online?
All devices are managed and filtered, and school systems include safeguards to block inappropriate content. Pupils are also taught about safe and responsible use as part of their digital education.
Can pupils access social media on school devices?
There is no access to social media apps on school iPads, or on the school network for pupils.
What should I do if I am concerned about my child’s device use at home?
We encourage parents to use the Jamf Parent App to manage access and set boundaries. If you have concerns, please contact us and we will be happy to support you.
BYOD & Laptops (Senior School)
Why are Chromebooks not supported?
Chromebooks do not offer full compatibility with key software and systems used in school, particularly for exam-related work.
Are Apple laptops fully supported?
Yes. Apple laptops are compatible with school systems, although in some subjects there may be minor differences in software use.
Will the school provide software for BYOD laptops?
Yes. Pupils will be given access to required school software, including Microsoft 365, as part of their school account.
Is technical support available for personal devices?
The IT team will support connection to school systems and core applications. Ongoing maintenance and repairs of personal devices remain the responsibility of the family.
Cost & Responsibility
What happens if a device is lost or stolen?
If a school managed device is lost, please inform the IT team as soon as possible. Families are responsible for personal devices. We recommend that appropriate insurance is in place.
Communication & Support
Who should I contact for help or advice?
For any queries relating to devices, setup or support, please contact: parents.ict@edinburghacademy.org.uk
How does the school review its approach to technology?
We regularly review our approach to ensure it reflects best practice, educational research and the needs of our pupils.
