More than 920 people have downloaded the Canobolas Rural Technology High School app since it was launched on July 15.

Users can view timetables, newsletters, exam dates, key school contacts, change their contact details or submit an absentee note all from their smartphone or tablet.

School principal Chad Bliss said the app helped keep students, parents, staff and the community up to date with what was happening at the school.

“It’s an idea that we investigated to give our school another means of communication,” he said.

“We’re trying to communicate with 21st-century learning tools.”

Students can access classes they have missed, their timetable and the school’s moodle - a hub of information and test dates for all subjects.

While it may be easy to submit an absentee note via the app Mr Bliss said it could not be abused, as an email would be sent to the school and the parent of the child on submission.

“If a student has sent an email from their email address we’ll see it’s not legitimate,” he said.

Mr Bliss said the app was a work in progress and would evolve.

“We’re really excited about the app ... nobody else in the central west has one that I’m aware of,” he said.

James Sheahan Cathoic High Shool learning and innovation co-ordinator Lynelle Maguire said while they did not have an app now, it could be a possibility in the future.

“We’re just starting our iPad journey now and staff are learning,” she said.

The free Canobolas Rural Technology High School app is available for iPhones, iPads and android smartphones and tablets.

nadine.morton@

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