The rapid digital transformation of recent years has reshaped how we work, communicate, and learn. The European Schools recognize the importance of equipping students with digital competence, a key skill for lifelong learning as outlined in the European Key Competences Framework. Digital tools are now an integral part of education, supporting not only subject learning but also problem-solving, critical thinking, and responsible digital citizenship.

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the need for digital readiness, reinforcing the role of technology in education. Schools worldwide adopted distance learning methods, leading to increased familiarity with digital learning tools among both teachers and students. Building on this experience, our school continues to integrate technology into classroom learning to enhance engagement, accessibility, and efficiency.

Since the 2020–2021 school year, students in S5 and above are required to bring a personal electronic device (laptop/tablet) to school.

To ensure a uniform and effective implementation, devices must meet the minimum technical specifications required for educational software and secure network access (see specifications here). These specifications are reviewed periodically.

As part of the school’s infrastructure improvements, charging lockers were installed near the secondary cafeteria and the entrance hall of the canteen in 2022. Students should use these responsibly and avoid unnecessary locking of all lockers, which may cause inconvenience for others.

The key goals of this initiative are:

• Enhancing learning by integrating digital tools into lessons.
• Facilitating efficient homework management and feedback.
• Supporting differentiated instruction to cater to diverse learning needs.
• Making it easier for students to access school materials, teacher notes, and shared resources via digital platforms.
• Developing responsible digital citizenship by fostering awareness of both the opportunities and risks of the internet.
• Encouraging pedagogical use of technology, rather than passive consumption.
• Introducing digital textbooks where feasible, reducing reliance on printed materials.
• Preparing students for higher education and the digital workplace by strengthening their digital competence.
• Improving typing proficiency, while still maintaining the importance of handwriting (e.g., in exams).

• Students will receive individual login credentials for the school’s secure WiFi network, which is to be used exclusively for educational purposes.
• The use of personal devices will complement traditional learning tools (books, notebooks, pens) rather than replace them.
• Teachers will determine when and how devices should be used in class, aligning with their lesson plans and learning objectives.
• Students must ensure their devices are fully charged before coming to school, as access to power outlets is limited.
• Any misuse of devices (e.g., unauthorized browsing, distraction in class) will be addressed according to the school’s disciplinary guidelines.

The Digital Teaching and Learning (DTL) group, consisting of teachers, management, and students, regularly assesses the effectiveness of the BYOD initiative. This group exchanges experiences and insights to improve digital pedagogy. Additionally, our school collaborates with other European Schools to exchange teaching materials tailored to the European curriculum.

As part of our commitment to digital competence, the school will continue to adapt to emerging technologies, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the digital demands of both education and professional life.