Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)
Balcatta SHS curriculum focuses on the 21st Century Skills required in the workforces of today. As a model for this, we use the ‘6 C’s’ of Communication, Collaboration, Creativity, Critical Thinking, Character and Citizenship. These reflect the General Capabilities of the Australian Curriculum.
The school recognises the significant role Information Communication and Technology (ICT) has in teaching and learning, instructional practices and curriculum for secondary students. Research highlights the importance of developing the productive, ethical and effective use of technology and digital literacy of young people and the role that experience plays in their future careers. At Balcatta SHS, ICT is integrated into the teaching and learning of the school in meaningful and relevant ways to maximise the holistic development of young people.
School-owned computers are not readily available to all students in every lesson where such a device would serve to maximise learning. For that reason, the school is moving to a program that allows continuous access to a personal device as a significant tool for learning.
What is a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)?
A BYOD refers to students bringing a personally owned device to school for the purpose of learning. We recognise the need to prepare students for a rapidly changing world where technology plays an increasing role in students’ everyday lives.
Year 7 to Year 10 students are expected to have a BYOD to support learning at school and home. To assist parents, we have established a supply relationship with Stott Hoare, who has many years of experience working with WA schools and is approved by the Department of Education to provide a range of services to facilitate school and parent involvement.
For advice, please email Stott Hoare by email at: byod@stotthoare.com.au or by telephone on 9244 0000.
Our recommended devices can be viewed and purchased via their online portal at www.stotthoare.com.au/byod
Minimum Requirements
Students are expected to have a device which meets the following minimal requirements:
- Windows 11
- Touch screen and stylus (essential for Mathematics)
- Headphone connection
- Long battery life (to be charged at home)
- Small and robust
- Fits in the student’s school bag (and not separate from)
- Takes up minimal space on the student’s desk
Recommended
- Protective case which fits in the student’s school bag; or
- School bag with protected laptop section
The devices we have chosen are:
- Lenovo 13W G3, and
- Lenovo 500W G5.
Software Applications
There is no need to purchase additional software as Office 365 will be pre-installed.
Parents may choose to purchase a device from any source. However, only devices with the minimum requirements mentioned above will be able to be used at school. For devices purchased elsewhere, download Office 365, free of charge.
We encourage parents to purchase their BYOD this year (in 2025) due to a potential world-wide supply shortage in early 2026. Pricing and device availability may be affected by this world-wide shortage.
Download, install, or reinstall Microsoft 365, Office 2024, or Office 2021 on a PC or Mac – Microsoft Support. Students will need to sign in with their school email address and password.
