BYO Program Information

Bring Your Own Technology Program Details

In 2012 Brauer College introduced a 1:1 netbook program across the school. The aim was to maximize opportunities for students to use technology as part of their everyday practice.

Brauer College has always believed the provision of a personal ICT device is an important asset for students and annually reviews the way these ICT tools are integrated into the curriculum. This program now operates across all year levels. Advances in the way curriculum is being delivered at the College, combined with the growth in ICT skills of both students and teachers ensures the continued development of 21st century ICT skills amongst our students.

Bring Your Own Technology

Students will use a privately purchased device chosen by them as their principal 1:1 device at school. It should be noted that small devices such as iPods, iPad Mini, and eBook readers are not eligible as the principal 1:1 device because of OH&S concerns.

Brauer staff will provide access to the wireless network and the internet but will not provide any hardware or software support for BYOT devices. There is no booklist or support cost for this service.

What device do I need to provide?

We recognise that a “one size fits all” netbook approach does not suit all students. The BYOT program allows families to provide a privately purchased device which can be sourced from any vendor. The device can be one of the following types.  There are minimum specifications for each.

  • Laptop – This includes Windows 10 and Apple devices that meet the minimum laptop specification and usually have larger screens and keyboards.
  • Netbook – This includes Windows and Apple devices that meet the minimum laptop specification but are usually much smaller and lighter than a full size laptop. They can have limitations like a smaller keyboard or no DVD. This may include ex-primary school netbooks only where they meet the minimum specifications.
  • Tablet – This includes Windows 10 and Apple iOS devices that meet the minimum tablet specification. Examples of these devices are the iPad and the Windows Surface Pro.

Families should ensure the device meets the minimum specifications provided by the College, and that the students have access to appropriate support for both maintenance and use, along with insurance.

Families should consider the ergonomic impact of different size devices, both for use and transport. The additional personal uses outside of school should also be considered. Tablet devices have limitations in the software that may be available compared to traditional laptop devices.

What about Software?

Laptops and netbooks will require no software to be purchased due to the extensive use of online tools in the College, such as the Google Apps suite. The College is also able to assist students by providing access to Microsoft Office 365 at no cost.

iPad owners will also have access to Office 365 for free, but should allow $30 for purchase of other apps used in the classroom from the Apple Store.

Families should use their discretion when considering additional software purchases. 

Where do I purchase a device?

Families have the option to make their BYOT purchase anywhere. However, many local companies work closely with the school and have been provided with this information, and can give sound advice to families about devices that will best meet their students’ needs.

Local Suppliers

These local suppliers, and long-time supporters of the College, have been provided details of our minimum specifications, along with details of the software freely available for students.

  • eResources
  • Good Guys
  • Harvey Norman
  • Multicomm IT
  • Welcome Computers

Families can of course purchase devices from other suppliers, but would need to ensure they are very familiar with the minimum specifications for BYOT devices.

The College has worked with School Locker / Mac1, an education equipment provider and Apple Authorised Education Reseller, to provide a portal for parents to simplify selection of a BYOT device at very competitive prices.
Devices listed meet or exceed the minimum specification and at the time represented the best value offering educational discounts. They provide both ‘onsite’ and ‘return to base’ warranty and repair options.

Another option is using an existing device you already own. Provided it meets the minimum specifications, an existing device is acceptable for BYOT.

Please note, by clicking the links above you are leaving the Brauer College website and accessing a commercial site. The college is not recommending or endorsing any payment or finance options available. Families should consider the products offered carefully and compare value with products from other suppliers. All products purchased through these portals contribute loyalty points toward the school, these will be redeemed to provide additional BYOT support devices and ICT equipment for students.

Program advantages

This type of program has many advantages for students and families but a few things should be considered when selecting a device which will become the primary ICT tool for the student.

Advantages Considerations
Personally owned device Families are responsible for repair costs and hardware maintenance, including insurance and fixing damage.
Choice of technology Families are responsible for all software support, except connection difficulties with the wireless network at school
Students can control software and customisation DET does not allow schools to accept responsibility for damage, loss or theft of any personal device or belongings
Provides access to latest technologies Familiarity with device and operating system will vary from student to student. Classroom support may also be limited depending on teacher experience relying on the students expertise.

Families should consider the ergonomic impact of different size devices both for use and transport. The additional personal uses outside of school should also be considered. Tablet devices have limitations in the software that may be available compared to traditional laptop devices.

Minimum BYOT Device Specification

The purchase of 3G/4G mobile data enabled devices is not recommended as per the Brauer College Mobile Phone Policy

All laptops or netbooks

  • Maximum age – 4 years
  • Current warranty and insurance recommended
  • Robust carry bag
  • Minimum expected battery life of 6 hours
  • Minimum 4GB RAM
  • Wireless network adaptor (WiFi) that supports A/X or A/C 802.11

Windows

  • Minimum Windows 10 installed.
  • Celeron or greater processor

Apple

  • Mac OS X 10.15: Monterey or greater installed

All Tablets

  • Recommended age – 2 years. Tablets generally have a shorter support lifespan both on warranty and software.
  • Current warranty and insurance recommended
  • Robust carry bag or cover
  • Minimum 10” screen size (not iPad Mini, iPod’s, etc)
  • Minimum expected battery life of 6 hours

Windows

  • Minimum Windows 10 installed
  • Minimum 4GB Ram

Apple iPad

  • iOS 15 or greater
  • iPad Air 4 / iPad 8th Gen or newer

Note: Any Android, Windows RT and Linux devices are currently not 100% compatible with Education Department systems and should not be used as the primary 1:1 device for student.

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