The integration of learning technologies within the curriculum, so as to support and enhance teaching and learning, has been a priority for Winthrop Primary school for the past six years.
When the school opened in 1991 it did so with a small number of BBC computers and printers;by 1996 it had acquired eight 386 IBM compatibles plus printers. In July of 1996 the first technology committee was formed and in August of the same year the staff decided that Apple computers would be purchased. In September the committee developed a Technology Plan and used it to apply to become a technology focus school. In November, Winthrop Primary School was chosen as one of 13 new Learning Technology Focus Schools for EDWA.
In 1997, the school appointed a Learning Technologies co-ordinator, created a school vision with respect to Learning Technology and revisited 'The Plan'. One computer, plus printer was placed in each classroom.
Early in 1997, Winthrop Primary was invited to be part of a project called NetDay. The aim of the project was to connect us to the Internet.....in one day! The school community accepted the invitation and raised $10 000 in sponsorship from local businesses . NetDay brought together a huge team of volunteers, facilitated by Andrew Nielsen of Starfish Technologies, and on 31st August, 1997, Winthrop Primary school was networked.
By 1999, we had developed a well documented plan - its vision and goals directly linked to the School Development Plan and included future development and maintenance of the network . All classrooms and the Library/Resource Centre were connected to the internet, and the school had 45 Macintosh computers for student use. Our Learning Technology resources also included scanners, digital cameras, laser printers and 2 LCD projectors.
Winthrop Primary School currently has a total of 104 Apple Macintosh computers that are available for use by staff and students. The wet areas, in classroom blocks, have fully networked computers and a laser printer available for use. Wireless networking has been established for transportable rooms and for our Pre-Primary Units. Specialist staff provide staff and students with support to increase the routine use of learning technologies, in order to access, organize and present information across all areas of the curriculum.