Online Platforms

Independant study and homework is key component of every student's academic journey at St. Joseph’s. Encouraging self-discipline and independence in students as skills that equip them well when it comes to external examinations in Years 11, 13 and beyond into their lives after school and Sixth Form.

Much of this will be completed by hand in exercise books although a significant amount will also need to be competed digitally though one of several different online learning platforms that we use to support this. Below is a brief guide to each of the online learning resources that we utilise and how to access and use them.

1. Office 365

As a student at St Joseph’s you have free access to this software. Below are the details of how you can access this at home and on multiple devices, enabling you to work from anywhere.

When you access the St Joseph’s office package it synchronizes with the school systems so all work can be accessed anywhere and is also backed up. If a student logs in with their own email, sometimes this causes issues when logging onto school computers. Students usinsparxg their own email/login may also be missing out on vital information sent via email. Office 365.

What is it?

Being a student at St Joseph’s allows you to access Office 365. It is a cloud-based software package from Microsoft. It provides you with the ability to install the latest release of Office to your home PC or Mac and tablet/phone devices. It will give you access to all Microsoft programs Email/Teams/Word/Onedrive etc and allow you access to your files the same way that you can access them on a school computer. You can download and install office on several devices if you wish so that you are always connected.

Where is it?

Office 365 can be accessed via a web browser at www.office.com where you will be directed to sign in.

How do I sign in?

Enter your username. This is the username you would enter to log in at school (typically a 2-digit number followed by your first name and surname) followed by @stjosephs.uk.net.

E.g. 17firstnamesurname@stjosephs.uk.net.

You will then be directed to the St Joseph’s logon page and prompted to enter your password. This is the same password that you use to logon to the computers in school. This will open the online version of office and give you access to all of the features mentioned above.

What do i do if I can’t remember my password?

You can speak to your IT teacher or a member of the School Network Team who will be able to reset the password for you.

Can I download Office 365?

If you wish to download office to your computer (so you can work offline) there is a button at the top right of the office page that says Install apps. Click this button and office will be installed on your local device for you, it can take up to 20 minutes to download and install depending on the device.

Will I have free access to Office 365 forever?

No. When you leave school your license to use the software will be automatically removed. You will then need to purchase a license if you wish to continue to use Office at home.

2. Teams

What is it?

Microsoft Teams is an application available through Office 365 and acts a digital hub that facilitates communication, collaboration and learning.
Students are auto enrolled into Class Teams where teachers can share resources and assignments and communicate with students.

Where is it?

Teams can be accessed via the Office 365 platform outlined above as well as be downloaded as an individual application on a mobile device.

How do i sign in?

Student log in and password details for Teams are the same as they are for Office 365

3. Sparx

What is Sparx?

Sparx is a platform used at St Joseph’s to enhance learning in mathematics, reading, and science. It is primarily used for personalised homework, offering a range of features like video support, data-driven personalisation, and insights for teachers and parents.

All three subject areas use Sparx with some more detail on each and how it is used in school outlined below.

Sparx Maths:

Personalised Homework:

Sparx Maths creates online math homework for students aged 11-16, focusing on individual needs and learning styles. Students in Years 7-11 receive Sparx Maths homework each week.

Data-Driven Approach:

The program uses data to adapt questions and support to ensure students are challenged but also experience success.

Features:

Sparx Maths offers features like personalised homework, videos, and bookwork checks to promote engagement and confidence.

Sparx Reader:

Reading and Literacy Skills:

Sparx Reader is a platform designed to help students develop their reading and literacy skills.

Visibility and Insights:

Teachers can track student reading progress in real-time, and the platform provides insights into student performance.

Sparx Science:

Science Sparx is used by students across all year groups from Year 7 to Year 11.
Weekly homework is set through the platform and is closely aligned with the curriculum. In addition to assigned tasks, students are encouraged to use Science Sparx for independent practice to support assessment preparation.
All students in Years 8 to 11 are assigned the equivalent of 60 minutes of homework each week, while Year 7 students receive 30 minutes of homework.
Homework Club is available every Tuesday in Room A101 for students who need extra help or access to resources.

Please note that consequences will be issued for incomplete homework. Science Sparx detentions will take place every Thursday.

How to log in to Sparx

select our school

4. Seneca

Seneca is a free online learning and revision platform primarily used by students for homework, revision, and exam preparation. It offers a range of courses, notes, videos, and practice questions, designed to help students understand and remember information effectively. Seneca is also used by teachers to set work and track student progress.