BYOD - FAQ

What types of computing devices may my child bring to school?

The BYOD programme will allow a range of devices to be used. The MacBook Air is our recommended device as this fulfils the requirements  and also has excellent battery life. However we recognise that this is not always possible and Windows based machines or other Apple laptops will also be suitable.  

How can my child's computing device connect to the Internet?

St Julian’s school provides a wireless network which students may connect to while using their devices on the site.

Are there suggested accessories?

Providing a padded bag or protective sleeve is suggested. This will provide more protection for the day to day use of these computing devices. Headphones/headsets with a microphone are essential for many multimedia and video-conferencing activities and students are required to bring one to school for a variety of activities. 

Will there be "charging stations" so my child's electronic device can be recharged?

The school provides charging lockers for students to use during break times. All classrooms have some sockets available but this may not be practical to utilise in every lesson. We anticipate that not every class will be using an electronic device in a lesson every day. Considering today's electronic device battery technology, the device's battery charge should be sufficient for lessons requiring use of the device throughout the day. Students are advised that they must use their personally assigned locker during the day to ensure that this equipment is kept safe. 

Are there any specifications for the type of laptop my child may bring to school?

Buying a computer is a personal choice. Ultimately, each parent will need to choose the device that works best for his/her child. Guidance for specifications is given here. 

What software will be needed on my child's computer?

No software needs to be purchased. St Julian’s School uses a Google Workspace for Education Plus account to store and create student work. This is a web-based file storage system providing many productivity tools including a word processor, spreadsheet program, and a presentation program. Students will be able to use these capabilities provided by St. Julian’s School rather than purchasing software. Because purchasing a computing device is a personal choice, anyone may purchase and use other productivity tools that best suits one's personal needs. The school also has a subscriptions to Adobe Creative Cloud suite which gives our students access to a range of software such as Photoshop, Premiere Pro etc. 

 Who pays for the technology brought to school?

These devices will be purchased by and remain the property of the family.

Who is responsible for any repairs or updating to personal computing devices?

Students and/or their families are responsible for their personal computing devices at all times. St Julian’s School does offer technical support for students having difficulty accessing the WiFi and accessing their school accounts. 

Who is responsible for damage, loss, or theft of devices your child brings to school?

Families must stress the responsibilities their children have when bringing their own computing devices to school. Any devices students bring to school are their sole responsibility.

St Julian’s School takes no responsibility to search for lost or stolen devices nor is there any assumption of financial responsibility by St Julian’s School for damaged, lost or stolen personal computing devices.

Does St Julian’s School suggest any other considerations?

It may be wise to acquire theft or hazard insurance. If purchasing a new computing device for a child to use at school, we recommend purchasing the extended warranty.

When can my child use the electronic device at school?

Students may use their electronic devices in class as instructed by the teacher. It is expected that the student brings the device fully charged to school every day. 

Will my child be expected to use his or her computing device both at school and at home?

Just as with traditional assignments, some assignments may need to be completed at home. If there is a computing device malfunction or an interruption of internet connectivity at home, a student may use computers at school before or after the school day. 

Will students be able to print documents from their personal computing devices?

Students will be able to access printer kiosks at St Julian’s School from their personal computing devices. We will provide alternatives as follows: (1) printing capabilities from school computers, and/or (2) electronic delivery of documents through email or other online methods such as through Google Classroom. 

Where will my child's work be stored?

Students will be encouraged to store their work on their school provided Google Drive accounts.  In so doing, the student will have access to their work wherever they have internet access.

Will students get to use more demanding software and hardware? 

Yes. Many departments have access to computers and professional standard software. 

The ICT Department has two well-resourced labs. They enable students to participate in a wide range of activities such as podcasting, electronic music production, website authoring, animation, video editing and a range of office applications. There are also two powerful workstations for video and 3D production.

The Art department has a suite of computers for students to run a range of related software such as the Adobe Creative Suite. 

The Design and Technology Department has an IT suite to allow professional design work to be done along with software linked to 3D printers. 

The Music department has a range of technology to allow production of music. This includes software such as Ableton Live, Fruity Loops, Cubase. They have a dedicated studio for recording and a small suite of computers for students to compose and record.