Frequently Asked Questions

Is training available for students on how to use the iPads?

Yes. Training is part of the Year 7 Orientation program at the beginning of Term 1. Each class will receive a full day training that will include information on how to use the iPad, netiquette, and acceptable use. For the Primary, when they are enrolled a short training session will be run through with them in smaller groups, for app specific training it will be taught through their class teacher.

Continuous support will be available if students require this during their first Break in the Library (Secondary), or by organisation by the Class teacher for the trainer to facilitate app training. For more self directed learning, students can use the Student Training - 101 site.

If your child begins school in a different term, they will be given a short session during the Secondary break when they are getting their devices enrolled.

Do all students have to have an iPad?

Yes. The iPad has been trialled and a significant amount of educational research has been undertaken in order to ensure that the tablet chosen is educationally beneficial. All students in Year 5 - 10 will be required to have an iPad as part of their school equipment. Students in Years 11 and 12 will have the option of choosing either and iPad OR a MacBook.

The iPads / MacBooks will be used to a varying degree in each class. This includes storing the students’ digital textbooks (Secondary), which will save considerable weight in their bags. In the Primary the iPad is one of many tools for learning we use to allow the children to be creative and present creatively. We still have the highest priority for reading and writing.

Can students install their own apps?

Yes, only when requested. All secondary students will be required to create an iTunes account (Year 7 students under 13 years of age are not permitted to create an Apple ID, therefore parents’ should use Family Sharing ). If you are not comfortable adding a credit card to the account, a $20 iTunes Card is recommended and can be purchased from a range of stores, this will allow you to create an account and purchase apps. Students will be given a list of required and recommended apps that they will need to download, this list will be distributed early in Term 1. In addition, other apps may be required throughout the year as they become available, and students will download these themselves.

In the primary a set of applications have been selected by the ICLT coordinator to limit the need for students to purchase new applications. As all students are under the age of 13, it is heavily suggested that the Family look into Family Sharing in order to create their students accounts.

Will students use their iPad's before school or during breaks?

Not at all. They are not permitted with the school owned devices in the Primary and the same rules will apply with BYODD. In the Secondary they have signed an agreement that states that they should not be using the devices during these times. If they are caught it can be seen as a disregard to their Internet Usage Agreement.

Will internet be filtered?

Yes, there is similar filtering as to when they use a desktop at school. We are aware of several sites and have blocked them being used. Whilst students are at school the LightSpeed and Zscaler settings apply however parents will need to look at the settings at home.

What accessories will be needed with the iPad?

Students will be required to have a protective cover on their iPad or MacBook (there is a list of recommended covers available). In addition, students should have a pair of earphones with them to use at times as well as a stylus for certain subjects. We are requesting that from 2020 students have a keyboard integrated with their cover OR a separate item (can be bluetooth). With any purchase of an iPad it is strongly recommended that you get Apple Care + to ensure that if there are any accidental damages within the two years, it is covered at a subsidised cost. (Only two incidents are covered for accidental Damage.)

Is there technical support for student iPads' at MacKillop?

Yes. There is a Field Technician who is available in the library before school, Break 1, Break 2 and after school every day for Secondary students and every Friday for the Primary. They are there to assist students with technical issues.

My child already has an iPad. Will s/he be able to use that one?

The minimum specifications for the iPads' must be an Apple iPad (10.2" 7th Generation) - 32GB or larger. If your iPad is older than this model your child will not be able to use it. The CSO requires a minimum specification for networking and consistency reasons.

What happens if an iPad gets broken, lost or stolen?

The iPad is the responsibility of the student and their family, we recommend Apple Care + or insurance for your iPad. Apple Care + will cover hardware or software malfunctions for at least two years from date of purchase, it includes two incidents for accidental damage by the user at a subsidised cost. We encourage families to check their homeowner’s insurance policy to see if the device is covered or to consider purchasing a separate policy for the device.

In cases of lost devices it is suggested that every family put on the feature called Find my iPad, this can be activated when using iCloud. If a device is lost the student or family can go to iCloud and remotely locate and lock the device.

If you have any further questions, please contact Shayne Winkler for Secondary Inquiries: shayne.winkler@dbb.catholic.edu.au or Karen Jones for Primary Inquiries: karen.jones@dbb.catholic.edu.au.