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Digital Learning

Junior School | Years 1 – 6

Digital Learning

“Years 1–2: Digital Explorers
Years 3–4: “I am a DIGITAL Discoverer. I can…”
Years 5–6: “I am a DIGITAL Adventurer. I can…”
 
In the Junior School, digital learning becomes a natural part of everyday teaching and learning. At St Mary’s College, we use digital tools to help students think creatively, solve problems, and communicate effectively.
 
Students in Years 1–4 access shared or paired iPads, building confidence as they learn to collaborate, explore ideas, and use simple digital tools independently. By Years 5–6, students transition to a 1:1 school-managed iPad, allowing them to log into CEWA platforms, complete assignments, access Teams, and adopt the organisational routines that prepare them for secondary school.
 
Digital citizenship is a strong focus in these years. Students learn how to use technology respectfully, safely, and responsibly. They engage in age-appropriate conversations about privacy, wellbeing, and making positive choices online.
 
Alongside digital literacy, Junior School students take part in STEAM and Design Thinking projects, where they explore real-world problems, brainstorm ideas, build prototypes, and test their solutions. These hands-on experiences help students understand how technology, creativity, and critical thinking work together. Whether designing bridges, creating animations, coding simple programs, or building models, students learn to approach challenges with curiosity and resilience.
 
With access to a wide range of educational apps and creative tools, students practise real-world problem-solving and develop confidence navigating digital platforms. Working with partners and small groups helps them strengthen teamwork, communication, and the ability to learn from one another.
 
Digital learning in the Junior School is about building strong foundations and giving every child the right skills, habits of mind, and confidence to thrive in a digital and rapidly changing world.

At St Mary’s College, we have embraced the enriching potential of digital learning for students in Years 1 to 6, harnessing the power of iPads to cultivate essential skills such as digital citizenship, problem-solving, and collaboration.

Our commitment to digital citizenship ensures that students develop a deep understanding of responsible and ethical technology use. Through age-appropriate lessons and discussions, we empower them to navigate the digital world safely, respecting privacy, and fostering a positive online presence.

The integration of iPads in our curriculum encourages active problem-solving among students. With access to a wide range of educational apps and interactive content, students are presented with real-world challenges that require critical thinking and creativity. They learn to analyse problems from different angles, explore innovative solutions, and adapt to various scenarios, preparing them for future complexities.

Collaboration lies at the heart of our digital learning approach. iPads facilitate seamless group projects, interactive discussions, and joint problem-solving exercises. By working together, students develop effective communication skills, learn from their peers’ diverse perspectives, and appreciate the value of teamwork.