Digital Learning
Digital Learning at St Columba’s College
At St Columba’s College, we believe that digital fluency is an essential part of a modern, future-ready education. Our approach to digital learning is designed not only to enhance academic progress, but also to build the confidence, adaptability and critical thinking our students will need in a rapidly evolving world.
1-to-1 Device Provision
All students in the Senior School and Sixth Form benefit from our 1-to-1 device programme, with each student using a Microsoft Surface to support their day-to-day learning. This approach enhances productivity, creativity and independent study, while ensuring students are fluent with the tools they are likely to encounter in higher education and professional settings.
In the Prep School, our youngest pupils are introduced to digital learning in developmentally appropriate ways. iPads are used in Reception and Year 1 to build early digital literacy through play, storytelling and exploration.
Our digital infrastructure is fully integrated with Microsoft 365, supporting a seamless hybrid learning environment. Whether in the classroom or learning remotely, students can access a rich array of teaching resources, collaborate on shared projects, and receive timely feedback from teachers.
This model supports continuity of learning and flexibility, while building digital independence and self-management—essential skills for Sixth Form study and beyond.
Digital Skills for Life and Work
Digital learning at St Columba’s is about more than mastering software. It’s about preparing students to thrive in a digital world. We embed essential digital skills across the curriculum, from file management and research techniques to data handling and content creation.
Alongside these technical skills, we place strong emphasis on soft skills—critical thinking, communication, problem-solving and teamwork—which are taught explicitly and reinforced through real-world digital tasks.
AI in the Classroom
St Columba’s College is committed to using artificial intelligence as a positive and ethical tool for learning. Students have access to age-appropriate AI platforms to extend their thinking, generate ideas, and refine their work, all under the guidance of experienced staff.
We also provide opportunities to explore the ethical implications of AI, including authorship, bias, and data privacy. Our aim is to ensure students don’t just use AI, but understand its impact—both the possibilities and the responsibilities.
Safe, Secure and Responsible
We take our responsibility for digital safeguarding seriously. All student devices are supported by robust filtering and monitoring systems to ensure online activity is appropriate and secure. Our digital landscape is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect best practice and evolving risks.
Online safety and digital citizenship are also embedded across the curriculum, giving students the knowledge and awareness to navigate the online world confidently and responsibly. We work closely with families to support this education at home, creating a shared culture of safe and respectful technology use.
