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Assistive Access is a setting on the iPad that allows students to control how the iPad works by simplifying the layout.
Assistive Access can be used on iPads with iPadOS 17 or later. To determine the iPadOS version, see Operating System.
Assistive Access can support students to:
increase focus and attention
build independence
boost confidence while using the iPad
create a decluttered work space
improve organization skills
To set up Assistive Access on an iPad in iPadOS 18:
Tap each image below to learn more, and zoom in to get a closer look.
Go to "Settings".
Tap "Accessibility".
Scroll down to find and tap "Assistive Access".
Tap "Set Up Assistive Access".
Tap "Continue".
Choose how the Assistive Access menu will look by tapping on the picture of "Rows" or "Grid", then tap "Continue".
Select the specific apps to be shown on the screen while in Assistive Access by tapping the plus sign next to the apps.
When selecting some apps, additional questions may appear on the screen before they can be added to the Assistive Access menu. Answer the questions, then tap "Continue".
When an app has been selected, it will show at the top of the list under "Selected Apps". To remove an app from the menu, tap the red circle beside the app, then tap the word "Remove".
Once the desired apps are selected, tap "Continue".
Read the information about "Using Assistive Access", then tap "Continue".
Confirm the password information. Note that there is "No Passcode" on this iPad. Then tap "Continue".
Create a password for Assistive Access that can be easily remembered or write this password down in a safe place. Type the password, then re-type the password.
On shared TDSB devices, do not enter a Recovery Apple Account. Select "Not Now".
Read the information about "Exiting Assistive Access", then tap "Continue".
Assistive Access is now ready to be used. Tap "Start Using Assistive Access" to begin using Assistive Access right away or tap "Enter Later" to use Assistive Access at a later time.
To use Assistive Access on an iPad in iPadOS 18:
Go to "Settings".
Tap "Accessibility".
Scroll down to find and tap "Assistive Access".
Tap "Start Assistive Access".
Type in the passcode that was entered while setting up Assistive Access.
Select and tap an icon in the Assistive Access menu to open the chosen app.
To return to the menu, press the "Back" button.
When the iPad screen turns off after not using the iPad for a period of time, press the home button or the Power Button to wake up the screen and tap the white rectangle that says, "Tap", two times, then says, "Open", to return to the Assistive Access apps.
To exit Assistive Access, triple-click the home button (press the home button 3 times quickly) and tap "Exit Assistive Access".
Type in the passcode that was entered while setting up Assistive Access to return to the iPad Home Screen.
Step-by-step instructions according to the iPad's Operating System:
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With Assistive Access, students in the TDSB can:
stay focused during lessons. Simplifying the screen with less apps helps students see only the tools they need for learning, such as Reading, Writing or Math apps.
make choices with confidence. With a simplified screen, students can independently choose the right app or tool for learning, with confidence.
safely use an iPad. Students can only open and use the apps the teacher has set up for them.
work independently. During work periods, when only learning apps are shown, students can easily begin working independently.
build good habits. By only seeing school related apps and features, students may learn how to stay on task and use the iPad for learning.
see a calming iPad Screen. A clean screen with fewer apps helps students feel more calm and ready to learn.
Last Updated June 16, 2025
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