With the implementation of the BYOD Programme students in Year 10 to 12 (and parents) can opt to use a Laptop as part of the Schools BYOD Programme. Students who currently use an iPad and find it is still meeting their digital teaching and learning needs in Secondary School, can continue to use their iPads.
Should you wish to use or purchase a new device please see the specifications below to assist you with choosing the most appropriate device for your needs.
Any Windows based OR Apple Laptop which meets the minimum specifications listed below would be acceptable to use, should a student wish to use a laptop.
Minimum Specifications are listed below. You may choose to extend these. Please note that no helpdesk support service will be provided to laptops that do not meet the minimum specifications.
| General Use Specifications | Specialised Subjects (see FAQ attached) | |
Minimum | Desirable For those looking to purchase a new Laptop the following specifications are desirable |
Desirable | |
Processor | Intel Core i3/AMD Ryzen 3 or higher. | Intel Core i5/AMD Ryzen 5 or higher. Apple M2/M3/M4. | Intel Core i7/AMD Ryzen 7 or higher. Apple M2 or higher. |
RAM | 8GB | 16GB or higher. | 16GB or higher. |
Operating System | Windows 11 OR MacOS Sonoma (version 14 or later). | Windows 11 OR MacOS Sonoma (version 14 or later). | Windows 11 OR MacOS Sonoma (version 14 or later). |
Battery Life | 6 hours. | 8 hours. | 8 hours. |
Wireless | 802.11 Dual Band (a, g, n) | 802.11 ax | 802.11 ax |
Screen Size | 13"+ | 13"+ | 13"+ |
Hard Drive Capacity | 120GB or higher. | 256GB or higher. | 512GB or higher. |
External Port | USB-A* Audio Out. | USB-A* Audio Out. | USB-A* Audio Out. |
iPad | iPad Air 4th Gen 64Gb or higher. iPadOS 18 or higher. | iPad 10th Gen 64Gb or higher. iPadOS 18 or higher. | iPad Air M2 128Gb or higher. iPadOS 18 or higher. |
* Where devices only have USB-C ports, student may need to bring their own USB-C video adapter for connecting to School displays (if needed).
Brand and Model - We make no specific recommendations for one brand over any other.
Accessories - Earphones are required by all students.
Software: - All students will be required to enrol to the Mobile Device Management (MDM) system and install Office 365 onto their laptop at no cost to parents. Details of how to access and install Office 365 can be found on SEQTA. For new students, instructions and information will be available when they commence at JSRACS. New students unfortunately will be unable to set up their computer until after they have received their school username and password.
A list of frequently asked questions can be found on the next page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to consider when purchasing a device? | Outside of the minimum specification, size and weight. You may also want to consider a touch screen option. Please review the after-sale service options. Please also consider any insurance options there may be. We also strongly recommend the purchase of a bag. A cover for the device may also be helpful to mitigate any damage. |
Why should I consider a laptop? | In Senior Secondary, students are increasingly required to produce more sophisticated and complex content using a broader range of functions found in applications installed on a computer. In addition, they need to type large amounts of text. A device with a keyboard is preferable to many students for this. The iPad was designed as a personal device, is great for accessing content and producing more simple content, often utilizing slimmed down versions of the applications found on computer systems. |
What brand or model do I buy? | This is a personal choice. |
Why are parents given free choice over what and where they purchase the device? | This enables parents to seek the best deal for their purchase. They may also seek to finance the laptop through their own chosen vendor. |
What support will the school offer in terms of help? | As it currently stands, we will ensure students have an account to access the school's network. Our students all have access to free Microsoft Office License as part of this account. No assistance can be provided for laptops that do not meet our minimum specifications. However, we will attempt to diagnose any faults and recommend a course of action to all students. |
Will I be able to install Office 365 for free? | Yes. Students at JSRACS, once they commence, will be able to install Office 365 on their BYO Device. This can also be installed free of charge on your home computer. Once students commence school they will be given further details including their Username and Network Password. |
Do I need anti-virus software? | Yes. Avast is an example of a free program. There are also commercially available options. |
How do I care for the device? | This is the responsibility of the students. Students are reminded that they need to bring their device to school fully charged. Devices should be clearly labelled. |
Repairs and Maintenance | This is the responsibility of the students and parents. Speak to your vendor about these options. Some vendors offer a pickup service. |
When can I purchase a laptop? | All Year 8-12 students and parents are permitted to purchase a laptop at any time they choose. Once a purchase is made, students are required to pick up a BYOD form from the IT Help desk, complete it, get it signed by parents, and return it to the help desk. |
Why do we specify minimum specifications? | This ensures the devices have capacity to run all of the software now and into the near future. Students interested in ICT, Media or Art, may wish to purchase computers with greater specification. (See grey highlighted section in the table on the previous page). |
What additional hardware will I need to provide? | All students are required to have a set of ear phones. |
Who should I see if I have any queries about BYOD? | Students can go to the IT Support Help Desk in the ICT Department. |