What devices are not suitable?

• Windows RT – Any device running the Microsoft Windows RT operating system is unsuitable, as it will not operate under the BYOD network. Windows 10/11 S – Windows 10/11 in S mode limits the ability of students To install software which is not from the Microsoft App Store. This may restrict the functionality of the device whilst at school and is therefore not recommended. Devices running S mode can switch out of S Mode, which will make them suitable for use at school.
• iPads/iPhones/Android tablets – Due to the difficulties in navigating the user interface on devices with small screens or which are incapable of supporting the addition of a mouse, devices such as iPhones, iPods, iPads, Smartphones and other tablets are not permitted as the primary device to be used at school. These devices may be configured and used as a secondary device whilst away from school.

Are MacBook’s acceptable?

MacBook Pro and MacBook Air are both suitable as BYO devices. If considering an older MacBook, please confirm that the device meets the minimum battery life requirement.

Do I need to purchase Microsoft Office?

All students at Frederick Irwin Anglican School have a Microsoft 365 Account, this account allows the student to download the latest version of Microsoft office on their own device.

Do I need to purchase Antivirus?

Each device on the BYOD scheme must have antivirus software installed. If you do not wish to purchase a commercial antivirus product, a free antivirus program will be available for download from the school download page when the device has been enrolled in the BYOD scheme.

Do I require any additional software?

The School recommends that Google Chrome be installed from https://www.google.com/chrome/ free of charge. Additional software to allow students to access the school printers will be installed by the IT Support Team. No additional software is required.

Will the laptops be monitored at home?

When being used at school, these devices will be subject to the standard web filtering applied to all school computers. All internet traffic will be monitored and filtered based on the School policies. When used at home, the School does not monitor any internet access and therefore parents may be more comfortable applying a personal web filtering software package.

What happens if my child’s device is broken?

If a student's device becomes damaged during the course of the school term, a laptop will be made available on a short-term loan basis whilst the student's device is being repaired. There is a limited supply of laptops available, and it is imperative that student devices are repaired as soon as possible. Loan laptops must be returned by the end of term and are not available for loan during the school holidays.

Can the devices be charged at school?

Yes. Charging lockers are available in the Library and Year 6 and 7 blocks – 5 lockers in Year 6 and 7, 20 lockers in the Library. These lockers are designed for short-term use, and students must not leave their laptops in the lockers overnight or for extended periods of time. Lockers are intended to be used for top-up charging, students should ensure that their laptops are fully charged before arriving at school.

Is an external hard drive necessary?

Whilst an external hard drive is not required, it is certainly recommended for backup purposes. We encourage all computer users to back up their data, as data recovery from a failed hard drive is usually uneconomical, and sometimes impossible.

Is an optical (CD/DVD) drive required?

No. All software can be downloaded via the school network or the internet.

What can I do if I can’t afford a laptop?

Please contact the School’s Business Manager to discuss alternative arrangements.