In leveraging digital technologies, and embedding innovative practice into our curriculum, it is our hope that students will be best prepared for their post-school destinations – university, vocational study and the workforce. Information, communication and technology (ICT) is a key General Capability within the Australian Curriculum, and will be embedded into our teaching and learning practices to ensure students are best supporting on their path to excellence.

Digital technologies have a significant impact on teaching and learning. It is the goal of Piara Waters SHS to support students in becoming ‘digitally literate’ and able to competently, ethically, and proficiently use the emerging technologies that will directly impact their future careers. Our teaching staff integrate ICT into teaching practices, ensuring meaningful and relevant application for the holistic development of all students.

As a school, we have embarked on an innovative initiative, that grants continuous access to a personal device, acknowledging the pivotal role of digital technologies as a powerful learning tool. A personally owned device or bring your own device program has been adopted by many senior high schools, and is used in most universities globally. At Piara Waters SHS, we  implemented a Parent-Owned Device (POD) program to ensure that all students have access to a device whilst at school, and at home. This forward-thinking approach will equip our students for a rapidly changing world where technology holds an increasingly prominent position in their daily lives.

It is expected that all students will possess a POD to bolster their learning experience, both in the school environment and at home. To support parents in this endeavour, we have established a strategic partnership with Winthrop Australia, a trusted entity with extensive experience collaborating with Western Australian schools. Winthrop offers an array of services that facilitate seamless school-parent cooperation and offers payment plans for families to consider when purchasing. The POD device can be purchased from any supplier (given it complies with our minimum specifications outlined below), though the school recommends the use of Winthrop Australia given their competitive pricing and pre-loading of relevant software.

It is recommended that students at Piara Waters SHS will utilise an Apple MacBook Air device. Considerable work has been completed by the Leadership Team in selecting a device; prioritising low-cost to parents, long-term sustainability and flexibility across the full range of programs being offered at Piara Waters SHS. Students will also have access to Windows-based technologies in their Digital Technologies classes; meaning they will have the opportunity to access the two main software systems used in the workforce.

For further information on how to purchase the POD, please visit the
Winthrop Australia portal.