Developing a Whole School Vision at St Ambrose
Written by Chelsea Carter, Assistant Principal Learning & Teaching, St Ambrose Catholic Primary School, Pottsville
In today’s fast-evolving educational landscape, the integration of technology into teaching and learning is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Our approach is rooted in a shared vision, deliberate strategies, and a strong culture of collaboration, all aimed at using technology to support authentic teaching and learning experiences.
The foundation of any successful approach to technology integration lies in a clear, shared vision. At St Ambrose, we prioritise the development of a school-wide approach to using technology to authentically deliver the curriculum, ensuring alignment with our broader mission of fostering academic excellence and inclusivity. This vision emphasises that digital tools like iPads are not just used more frequently but are utilised effectively to enhance student learning and real-world application.
Building Teacher Efficacy
Teacher confidence and competence are crucial for the successful integration of technology. At St Ambrose, we recognise the need for ongoing and collaborative professional learning that empowers teachers to use technology authentically and effectively. Professional learning equips our educators with the skills to use technology to enhance curriculum delivery, promoting a consistent approach to digital literacy across the school. This professional development initiative not only enhances individual teacher efficacy but also creates a shared language and understanding around technology integration. For leaders, this illustrates the power of structured professional learning to drive systemic change.
A Shared Understanding
Consistency is key to any school-wide initiative. At St Ambrose, we’ve established a progressive approach to skill development, ensuring that students build on their digital literacy year after year. This shared understanding among staff ensures that technology integration is not isolated to individual classrooms but is part of a cohesive strategy across the school.
We’ve fostered a collaborative culture where teachers regularly share best practices, align their pedagogical strategies, and support one another in overcoming challenges. For leaders, this underscores the importance of creating opportunities for collaboration and professional dialogue, enabling staff to grow together as a community of knowledgeable learners.
Enhancing Learning Experiences
Technology, when used purposefully, can enhance educational experiences and empower students to take ownership of their learning. By leveraging tools like iPads, our classrooms are fluid, flexible learning environments that promote deeper learning, creativity, and engagement. Technology is seamlessly integrated into the curriculum at St Ambrose, supporting personalised learning across a range of subjects. Students use iPads to create multimedia projects, participate in virtual experiences, and collaborate on tasks that align directly with curriculum outcomes.
Insights from our Journey
Leadership’s Role in Digital Innovation: Success begins with leadership that understands the importance of a cohesive vision. Leaders must engage all stakeholders—teachers, students, and parents—in shaping this vision, ensuring everyone feels part of the journey. Leaders must consistently communicate a clear vision for technology use, ensuring alignment with broader school goals. This includes setting expectations, providing resources, and monitoring progress to ensure that both staff and students are equipped for future success.
Empowering Teachers: By prioritising teacher professional learning and opportunities for collaboration, schools can ensure staff feel confident in their ability to use technology effectively. This encourages open dialogue, shared practices and collective expertise - leading to improved student learning outcomes.
Authenticity in Technology Use: Technology should serve as a tool for enriching curriculum delivery, its use must align with learning outcomes.
Looking Ahead
The journey to authentically using technology for curriculum delivery is ongoing, and at St Ambrose, we remain committed to refining our practices and exploring new possibilities. As technology continues to evolve, so too must our approaches to teaching and learning. By staying true to our vision, investing in professional growth, and fostering a collaborative culture, we aim to ensure that every student and teacher is prepared to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
For leaders and aspiring leaders, the message is clear: success in technology integration requires intentionality, collaboration, and a relentless focus on authentic curriculum delivery. By turning theory into practice, we can create schools that inspire innovation, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.
Chelsea is presenting in the Leading a Digital School Conference Brisbane on 31 July - 1 August 2025 at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre. Find out more and register for the Conference here.