What device can I bring to Russell Vale Public School?
We have consulted with parents via survey, as well as consultation with our staff and the school community. We have determined recommendations for a number of devices that will meet the requirements of our network. These recommendations aim to cater for a range of budgets and technical capacities. We have also provided a specific list of specifications for students and parents who want the freedom to purchase their own devices. We highly recommend that families seek similar information from prospective high schools prior to purchasing a device.
Students and families may well have an existing device at home that they can use for BYOD. The school encourages families to check if these devices meet the specifications we have set. It is the expectation of Russell Vale Public School that students bring a device that they can use each day. Students and parents are also expected to sign a User Agreement that sets out how the device can and should be used. The User Agreement can be found in the Policies section of this website.
Concerns about the cost of BYOD?
Fundamentally, Russell Vale Public School as a public education provider is committed to ensuring that all of our students have access to the same quality learning opportunity to achieve outcomes. It is for this reason that Russell Vale Public School has developed an Equity Policy as part of our BYOD program. This includes measures such as loans of school devices during school hours and the use of desktop computers.
Making the right choice
There are many factors to take into consideration for parents and families buying a device for their child. A range of devices in a range of price categories will meet the important specifications that we have set. Specifications include Windows and Apple Devices. Our recommendations are just a small representation of what is available. You may choose a laptop or convertible tablet. While a laptop is recommended over an iPad, if this is the device that you may already have, we do require a keyboard. Android devices are discouraged as they do not communicate properly with our school wifi. The weight of the device is important, as is durability, with students carrying their device to and from school each day. An affordable, good quality and well maintained device should last a minimum of three years. There are various options to buy or lease devices through leading retailers.
It is very important that we stress that the school does not manage, support, own or warranty the device - it's your device.
Please click on the link to view our Device Specifications guide.