Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is RGS Digital all about?
What is RGS Digital?
RGS Digital is a gradual evolution in the way that we use the technology in school. It is the selective and appropriate use of technology at home and in school to support students. In September 2022 we launched Phase One with our current Lower Sixth and Third Form students. Over the next two years we will complete our rollout to other year groups, introducing a one-to-one computer for all so that each child has their own computer in school as part of their normal school equipment.
What benefits will RGS Digital bring?
RGS Digital will help improve the way that we deliver the school curriculum to each student. For example:
• to provide better differentiated lessons; and
• to help with organisation to give feedback to students in more accessible and personalised ways
• to provide new ways for students and teachers to work together
If you would like to see of the things we have been getting up to, watch the video: Digital Work. However, more than this, RGS Digital will teach children about when technology is the right solution, how to use that technology safely and when using simple pen and paper is better.
How might it better differentiate in lessons?
Our experience has been that one-to-one allows opportunity for students to access resources and tasks independently and more fluidly in lessons, progressing through their learning at a pace that ensures understanding. Devices provide the opportunity for thinking beyond the immediate lesson concept and allow personalised materials to cater for individual needs.
What do you mean about feedback in different ways?
The more traditional phrase ‘marking’ is now considered a one-way action done by teachers to students’ work. Whilst more formal summative assessments such as tests are marked the most powerful way teachers can help students progress is to have a dialogue to engage an action from the student. One-to-one devices allow this to happen more effectively with options for verbal, collaborative and ongoing dialogue. This can take place in response to work and so students have more time to reflect on what they need to do next to improve their learning.
Will exercise books disappear?
No, not at all. RGS Digital is all about the selective and appropriate use of technology alongside what we already do well. The child’s computer will be just another tool that we can use to support learning.
Which year groups are happening when?
We already have the current Lower Sixth and Third form working within the scheme.
Phase: commencement date
Phase 2: September 2023
Phase 3: September 2024
Year Group (20222023)
Group (at the
2024)
2. Types of devices
What types of devices are available?
The school offers a choice between a Surface Pro (i5, 8GB, 128GB SSD) or Surface Go (i3, 8GB,128GB SSD). These devices come with:
• Stylus, keyboard cover, protective case, plug charger, optional Panzer/Gorilla Glass
• Windows 11 and Windows Education Pro license
• Up to four years extended warranty and accidental damage insurance
• Theft and external disaster cover
• Replacement equipment during hardware repairs
• Service portal, email and telephone support
• Service available at home during non-term time
When can I order?
For families joining RGS in September into the new Third Form or Lower Sixth we will write with an update over the next month to announce the launch of the new web shop.
How do I choose?
There is a choice of two devices from the same family of computers: the Microsoft Surface range. The Surface Go3 is a lighter, more compact version of the Surface Pro. The Surface Pro is a slightly larger device which has more processing power and will therefore have a longer life span. Both devices have been tested in school and work very well.
Can I bring my own device?
Yes, you may, and some families have chosen to do this. We ask that devices meet the minimum specification and functionality set out below. In September 2022 there were a few issues where some students were using old equipment or machines that did not function well Feedback suggests that it proved to be better for students who had a laptop from the scheme. Whilst we will be helpful and try to solve problems wherever we can, students who are not using devices from the school scheme will not benefit from the replacement device service.
List of requirements:
• Mobility: it must be possible easily to carry the device between classrooms
• Screen size: the device must have a reasonable screen size to be able to view more than one window at a time, i.e. a smartphone screen size is not sufficient
• Office 365: it must be able to access apps readily, i.e. Teams, OneNote, Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Forms etc.
• A sensible battery life on a single charge
• Keyboard: essential
• Stylus pen: essential
• Multi-functional: the device must be able to perform more than one task at a time, for example watching video whilst typing in a Word document.
• Wi-Fi access: Students will only be able to use the school Wi-Fi to access their computer
3. Practical arrangements
How will my child be able to look after their device safely at school?
We have taken a number so steps to support security and safety of devices in school. We offer each child with a device a school locker so that they can store their bag and device safely. We have also completed a major CCTV upgrade to the school site. At the time of writing, no device has been misplaced or lost for more 24 hours.
Will this just make bags heavier?
Some RGS departments already use e-text books for the convenience that online access offers. As part of our preparation, departments are looking at the transition to electronic textbooks so that we can help keep bag weight down. We will, of course, continue to encourage students only to bring the books they need for that day and to use their locker to help them manage the equipment they need for school.
What happens if the device runs out of power during the school day?
It is essential that devices are charged overnight but we do have some options to charge devices in school Students may charge devices in science lessons and also have access to Anker Power packs in lessons if needed.
Am I able to take advantage of the school scheme if my child will not be in the Third or Lower Sixth Form next year?
Yes. As we did last year, the web shop will be open to families in current Second and Fifth Forms first and will then open to other year groups.
Is there a lot of accidental damage to devices?
Not really. This may come as a surprise, but the devices come in Kensington Black Belt 2 cases and there is the option to add a toughened screen protector called Panzer glass. This has kept accidental damage down to very low numbers: much lower than anticipated.
How does the replacement device service work?
If there is an issue with the device, a service ticket should be logged with the helpdesk. It may be possible to resolve some software issues remotely, but if the device needs to be looked at by an engineer the student can drop if off in school and collect a replacement in school. We maintain a stock of replacement devices and peripherals for this purpose. The device will be sent to the service centre for repair and swapped back once this is complete.
4. Safer use at home and monitoring keeping children safe online
How will the school help keep my child safe online?
Every RGS student takes part in our extensive PSHEE classes throughout their time at the school including the delivery of e-safety lessons. In addition, all teachers receive regular training on e-safety. Any device (computer or mobile) connected to the school Wi-Fi goes through the school web filter to manage internet access. School computers and computers bought through the school scheme have this same filtering.
If we buy a computer through the school scheme will the same level of filtering be active all of the time, including at home?
RGS Digital is about developing a shared understanding and trust of the use of technology for children, families and school. We want to support students and families so that they know what is safe and what is not; what is appropriate and what is not. We know that children need their own space, and we use cloud-based filtering to filter harmful content at home, but this is much less restrictive than the filters in school. Parents may wish to set up their own protocols to monitor use at home, e.g. using BT Parent Control. We are always happy to talk about appropriate levels of filtering and pupils can request changes to the filtering system.
If we choose not to buy a laptop through the school, could I have the school filtering on my child’s computer?
We have selected the school system to work best with the school’s preferred devices. However, when in school, your child will have to log onto the school Wi-Fi network at school, where the school web filter will protect them online but this protection will end once they leave the school site.
5. Finance, web shop and onward support
What payment options are available?
You may choose to pay for your device in one go or pay in either monthly or annual instalments. If you choose to pay in installments, you will need to have completed payment by the time your child leaves RGS.
How much does it cost?
To give a sense of costs a 48-month arrangement for a Surface Pro from the first tranche was £25.55 per month with four years of insurance and warranty. Prices are likely to rise following the world-wide inflation issues.
Am I able to connect a device from the school web shop to a TV screen, keyboard and mouse?
Yes, both devices from the school web shop have the functionality to connect to additional peripherals.
What is the difference between rent and buy options?
The “buy” option means you buy the device outright at the point of purchase. The “rent” option means you pay monthly or annually over the term you have selected. The “rent” option requires a four-month deposit and then monthly/annual payments for the duration of the term at the end of which you may return the device and get your deposit back or keep the device. The amount paid for the device is the same whether you choose to pay in one go or in instalments.
Will I own the computer at the end of the agreed period?
Yes. You can walk away with the computer and the Windows 11 license that comes with it at the end of the agreed period. If you have chosen the “rent” option then you may return the device at the end of the agreed period and your deposit will be refunded or you can keep the device.
How much is the excess if I need to make a claim for accidental damage etc.?
The excess is currently £50 per claim. The policy allows three claims at £50 over the life of the policy. Repairs for accidental damage beyond that will be charged at the normal price.
Is the school making any profit on the sale of these devices?
No, not at all. We have worked very hard to secure really good value deals for our students and families.
I am using a bursary to support school fees. How will this work for me?
Families who receive bursary support will receive the same rate of support for the RGS Digital scheme. For example, if you are in receipt of a 50% bursary then the school will fund 50% of the cost for RGS Digital. We will write direct to the relevant families about this scheme.
Will I need to take software off the device when I leave the school?
Your child’s O365 subscription will end and software licensed specifically to school will stop working when you child leaves RGS. However, the computer will be yours to take away with a full working version of Windows 11 Pro (Education) installed. You may then install any software you like on the computer.