CONNECT Program

Hello again to all our FNPS families, 

There have been many questions from within our community asking for details and clarification on the FNPS CONNECT program. I’m hoping that the majority of these can be answered here, so please read on!

FNPS’s CONNECT device program is one that honours the ‘Innovation’ element within our school. The program has run for a number of years and is an opportunity for parents to make an investment in the long term education of their students. This opt-in program directly aligns with school values and the contemporary focus of teaching and learning. 

The program is for students from Grade 3 - 6 in 2022. This doesn’t translate to more time on a device during the school day, instead, it offers an opportunity for students to engage in learning with their own device. The intent is to provide our students with "anywhere, anytime" inclusive, engaging learning and means learning from school can be taken home and vice versa. 

Teachers believe there are a lot of positive aspects to implementing this program. Devices in the classroom are used as a tool in the same way as paper, pencils, erasers and textbooks. Having their own device, means students do not waste time searching for a fully charged device, logging in or saving work. If students have their device, they do not have to remember multiple passwords, and it is ready to use instantly. 

Digital Technologies is an essential part of the curriculum taught across Victoria and one that integrates itself amongst other curriculum areas. As a result, the need to balance and complement learning by using devices has become a characteristic of FNPS. With many classes sharing the use of devices, now is the time to consider joining the CONNECT program.

Please note, our preferred devices are iPads (with an accompanying keyboard) purchased within the last 2-years, as they are mostly as capable as many laptops, are more cost-efficient and provide a more dynamic approach to digital learning. Due to DET network and certificate configurations, unfortunately, newly purchased Chromebook devices are NOT supported within the school. 

For more information on what the CONNECT program is, how it runs, testimonials from teachers and students, or to simply learn more about how to get involved with the program head to our website; http://www.fitzroynthps.vic.edu.au/ and follow the link to ‘Info for Parents’ > ‘CONNECT Program’.