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Responsible Use Agreement

To ensure a safe and secure digital community, these guidelines apply to all students from Year 1 to Year 13 at Discovery College, emphasising the importance of responsible technology use for supporting student learning in real-world and online environments.


These expectations encompass the use of ALL digital technologies owned/used by Discovery College and students. By bringing any digital device onto the school premises or when participating in school activities or otherwise affecting the good order and management of the school", students are expected to uphold the expectations set out below.


** Please note these expectations are inline with the ESF Digital Citizenship Framework 



I ensure safety, security and privacy by……



Taking responsibility for the care and security of my device (not leaving devices open, where they can be walked or sat on and securing them when not used)

Protecting my personal data, ensuring strong password protection and being mindful of what I share

online, always checking with a trusted adult if in doubt.

Regularly updating my devices and applications to protect against security vulnerabilities.

Regularly reviewing and managing the privacy settings on any social media platforms and other online services to control what information is shared publicly.

Reporting any inappropriate or harmful online interactions to a trusted adult and taking immediate action to block or disengage from such situations.

Maintaining the efficiency of my computer by being mindful of what I download or install.



I engage with digital technologies and online environments by…..

Treating online users with respect, kindness and empathy.

Not engaging in defamation, bullying, harassment, embarrassment, discrimination, or exclusion.

Cultivating a positive online presence and thinking about the content I post/share about myself and others.

Standing up against negative online experiences, such as cyberbullying.

Using digital tools to collaborate with students from different parts of the world, making my communication, critical thinking, teamwork inclusive and productive.

Modelling safe practices and positive behaviour online just as I do in the real-world.




I think critically before engaging with digital content by…..

Using my critical thinking skills to evaluate what digital software/content is suitable for me. I understand that different software/tools have varying age ratings. If in doubt I check with a trusted adult.

Using my critical thinking skills to verify information: evaluate the reliability, credibility, and accuracy of online information, following DC GenAI Guidance

Using digital technology ethically and responsibly, demonstrating DC Academic Integrity Guidelines in ALL my digital interactions, including the use of GenAI.

Respecting the rights of others. I do not plagiarise or claim or present someone else's work as my own. I adhere to the DC Student Guide to Citation.

Being creative and innovative while creating digital content that is NOT false or harmful to others.




I maintain a healthy digital balance by…..

Prioritising face to face interactions over digital communication where applicable. I value real-life interactions and understand that they help to build meaningful relationships.

Prioritising my physical well-being and mental well-being by taking regular breaks from technology and practising self-care.

Setting clear, concise time limits for playing games and engaging in social online activities.

Seeking support from trusted adults when I feel overwhelmed or uncomfortable by digital technologies.

Monitoring the digital content in terms of quality and content to ensure a balanced digital diet.

Remember, responsible use of digital technologies not only benefits you but also contributes to creating a positive and safe online environment for everyone.


Guidelines: Discovery College will monitor internet access and user data, including the contents of electronic devices brought onto the premises and/or used during official school events, such as excursions or camps. Curriculum-related network and computer resource use will take precedence over non-curriculum activities.


Audit of electronic devices and services: The College reserves the right to audit electronic devices brought onto the premises or used during official school events. Appropriate permission will be sought where necessary. The College reserves the right to seek reimbursement for damages caused, and may ask for the cost of repairs to be paid.


Email: The school email domain (@dc.edu.hk) is a workspace provided for professional and learning-related purposes. While personal correspondence is allowed, users should be aware that school administrators have access to email traffic and utilise keyword monitoring to ensure the safety of the community. All school email addresses (@dc.edu.hk) MUST ONLY display the correct format of the user's full name (first name and surname).


If you would like to download a copy of this agreement, please click below.



Parent Conversations


Click here to access our Digital Citizenship page which has some helpful parent resources to discuss digital technologies at home.


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