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Digital Learning
At JHGS, technology is an integral part of learning, preparing students for a world in which digital confidence, collaboration and adaptability are essential.
A Google School since 2012, JHGS has been at the forefront of embracing digital technology to enhance teaching and learning. Through Google for Education and our established one-to-one Chromebook programme, every student in Key Stages 3 and 4 has access to a connected digital learning environment that extends beyond the classroom.
Technology is used purposefully alongside excellent teaching to enrich learning, strengthen collaboration and give students greater independence in how they access, create and share knowledge. Google Classroom, Drive, Gmail and Meet provide a familiar and connected platform for learning, communication and collaboration across the school community.
Our approach continues to evolve alongside emerging technologies, including AI. We want students not simply to use digital tools, but to understand how to use them creatively, critically, responsibly and confidently. Staff expertise and student digital leaders help us develop these skills across the JHGS community.
'One-to-One' Devices at JHGS
Our Chromebook scheme relies on parental support to purchase devices, although financial assistance is available for disadvantaged students. The cloud based storage that Chromebooks benefit from means that device specifications are relatively low, making devices more affordable than an equivalent WindowsOS laptop.
All Chromebooks used in school require a Chrome for Education License to enable device management and allow necessary safeguarding measures to be met. Only Chromebooks are permitted for use by students in Key Stage 3 and 4.
We recognise the importance of technology in today's society and believe it enhances learning opportunities. Due to increasing disciplinary specialisation, students in Key Stage 5 have freedom of choice of device (Chromebook, Windows laptop, Macbook, or alternative device) as these may be more appropriate to their needs as they begin to specialise.
More information can be found in the Chromebook downloads on this page.
What is a Chromebook?
A Chromebook runs an operating system called ChromeOS (rather than Windows or Apple’s OS).
Chromebooks are made by a range of well known manufacturers.
They are designed with the cloud in mind.
There are thousands of apps and extensions available, many of them free.
The Chrome for Education Licence which must be installed on student devices allows the school to manage content and apps whilst at school.
Chromebooks were chosen as our preferred device after a robust review process involving staff and students in 2018. Chromebooks were chosen due to the significant benefits we identified over other devices, particularly their suitability in an educational environment, affordability and integration into the Google environment students have become accustomed to.
Clearly there are times when technology does not have a role within the lesson and the need and benefits of developing students’ use of pen and paper will continue to be a feature of our teaching.
As the Covid 19 crisis has demonstrated, Google schools like JHGS, with one-to-one devices for students have been very effective in supporting learning despite school closures.
Chromebook Resources
AI use @ JHGS
Artificial Intelligence is rapidly changing the way we learrn, work and create. At JHGS, we believe our role is not simply to give students access to emerging technologies, but to equip them with the knowledge, judgement and confidence to use them effectively.
Our approach to AI balances innovation with responsibility. Students are encouraged to explore the potential of AI where it can enhance learning, while understanding its limitations, questioning the accuracy and reliability of its outputs, protecting personal information and recognising when its use is inappropriate. These principles reflect the risks explictly identified in the school's AI policy, including bias, inaccurate or fabricated outputs, transparency, reliability and data privacy.
In lessons, our simple Red, Amber and Green framework makes expectations clear: AI is not used unless permission is given; teachers may invite its use for particular learning activities within clearly defined boundaries; and greater freedom is available for appropriate independent learning.
Ultimately, we want our students to become discerning users of AI rather than passive consumers of it - able to recognise both its possibilities and its limitations, and ready to make informed decisions about its use in education, the workplace and beyond.
More information can be found in our AI policy on the policies page.
Esafety Guidance for Parents and Students @ JHGS
The school is committed to supporting students and parents with all aspects of esafety. Digital literacy and safety workshops are offered by the school. Please see the Parent Bulletin for more information about upcoming events.
Our termly Esafety newsletters are written for our students and parents to support their awareness of online threats, as actions that they should take to support their digital wellbeing. An archive of Esafety Newsletters is availlable. Please note that links to the previous newsletters appear at the bottom of the most recent newsletter: E Safety Newsletter - Summer 2026.