Technology plays an important role in learning at OPAC. The Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Program for students in Years 5 to 12 supports independence, collaboration and access to digital learning tools.
This page outlines the technology requirements for the BYOD Program, including device suitability, software provided by the College, connectivity at school and student responsibilities when using technology. It is designed to help families make informed decisions and understand how technology is used and managed at OPAC.
Our goal is to see our students grow
as individuals; intellectually, socially
and ethically, and as contributors to society.
Mrs Naomi Wilkins
Principal
Devices
When purchasing a device from a retailer, families should consider factors such as battery life, size and weight, connectivity and ease of use. As it is not practical to recharge devices during the school day, laptops must have sufficient battery life to last a full day at school. Devices should also be light enough for students to carry between classes.
Minimum requirements
- Operating System – Microsoft Windows Home or Pro (latest version) or Apple macOS (latest version)
- Display – 12 inches with 1024 x 768 resolution or higher
- Processor/CPU – Intel Core i5 or AMD equivalent / Apple M1 (or higher)
- RAM – 8GB RAM or higher
- Storage – 256GB or more is recommended
- WiFi – Wifi: 802.11 N or AC
- Ports – HDMI, USB-C and USB-A. Otherwise a USB-C to USB-A adaptor or USB-C to HDMI adapter is also required. It is highly recommended to have USB-C charging to utilise the College charger packs if needed
- Audio/Video – Headphone and microphone capabilities as well as an inbuilt camera
- Keyboard – QWERTY Keyboard suitable for touch-typing
- Battery – Sufficient battery life to last for the duration of a school day
- Bag/Case – An appropriate and robust carry case to suit the shape/size of the device
Devices that are NOT suitable
Examples of devices that are NOT suitable:
- Chromebooks
- Windows ARM-based PCs (Snapdragon)
- Device running a limited version of Windows (eg. Windows RT or S)
- Smartphone of any kind
- Older Windows laptop running non-supported version of Windows
- Android tablet, or Apple iPad
- Any older device that doesn’t meet the minimum requirements
- Device with less than 7 hours battery life
- Devices with 4G/5G capability (Mobile data)
What about iPads or tablets?
iPads and tablets are not suitable for years 5 -12, as they do not support more complex learning tasks such as extended writing, multitasking, programming and computer‑aided design. Laptops provide greater capability and flexibility for learning.
Insurance and responsibility
Devices remain the responsibility of the student and their family. The College is not responsible for devices that are lost, stolen or damaged. Staff will support students in understanding how to care for and secure their devices; however, responsibility for the device ultimately rests with the student.
Families may wish to check their home and contents insurance policy to see whether personal electronic devices are covered.
Software
The College provides access to the core software students need for learning, with only a small number of free applications required to be installed on student devices.
Microsoft Office 365
Every student has access to Microsoft Office 365 through their College account, which includes all required applications. Families do not need to purchase additional productivity software such as Microsoft Office for Mac or PC, unless they choose to do so.
Canvas (online learning platform)
Canvas is the College’s online learning platform used by students to access learning materials, submit work and receive information from their teachers.
Other software requirements
- Internet Browser – All devices must have Google Chrome installed and set as the default browser.
- PDF Reader – Google Chrome includes a built‑in PDF viewer. The free Adobe Acrobat Reader app is also recommended.
- Audio and Video – Due to the range of file types used, the free VLC Media Player is strongly recommended, in addition to any software already installed on the device.
Connectivity
Students are provided with access to the College Wi‑Fi while on campus, with web filtering applied during use.
Is internet use filtered at school?
When students are connected to the College Wi‑Fi on campus, web filtering is applied to help restrict access to inappropriate, harmful or illegal content. Social media sites that are not considered educational are also blocked while students are on site.
Web filtering does not apply when students are using the internet at home. Managing internet access outside the College is the responsibility of families. Information about optional home filtering solutions is available at www.qustodio.com/en/familyzone/.
Can my child use mobile data (4G/5G) at school?
Students are expected to use the College Wi‑Fi while on campus and not connect via 4G or 5G (Mobile Data hotspot). Mobile data connections are not web‑filtered and can result in additional costs. For this reason, devices with 4G or 5G capability are not recommended.
Cyber Safety
The College expects students to use technology safely, responsibly and respectfully. Clear guidelines are in place to protect students and the wider community, and all students are required to comply with the College’s ICT Acceptable Use Policy when using technology at school or during College activities.
What are the expectations for students?
Students are expected to use technology in a way that is safe, respectful and appropriate. This includes:
- Respecting themselves and others
- Protecting personal information
- Respecting intellectual property
- Using technology in line with College expectations
The College integrates digital citizenship and cyber safety into teaching and learning programs. Students are required to comply with the College’s ICT Acceptable Use Policy at all times.
How can I learn more about cyber safety?
The Australian eSafety Commissioner provides practical guidance and resources for students and families on online safety. Families are encouraged to explore the information available on the eSafety website.
Other Questions
Can devices be charged at the College?
Devices cannot be charged at the College due to Work Health and Safety requirements. Students must bring their devices fully charged each day, with sufficient battery life to last the full school day (at least 8 hours).
Can I give my child an older laptop to use?
Families are encouraged to provide a device that is as new as possible to ensure it meets the College’s minimum requirements and is reliable for daily use. Devices that are more than three years old may not be suitable.
Can my children share one device?
No. Each student is required to have their own individual device. Students are set regular tasks that require access to their device across multiple subjects, so shared devices are not suitable for the BYOD program.
What about printing?
Students are not able to print directly from their personal device. Printing can be done using College computers when required.
I have the device – what happens next?
Information about setting up devices for use at the College will be provided closer to the start of the school year. Students will also attend a BYOD setup session in their Pastoral class at the beginning of Term 1.