What is BYOD?
BYOD stands for “Bring Your Own Device". This means that students bring a personal device (i.e. a laptop or tablet) to school for their classwork.
Is the BYOD program compulsory?
Yes, if year 11 and 12 students are enrolled in a general (ATAR) subjects, students must have a device with them for school each day.
In 2024, th BYOD program will roll out to all year 7, 10 and 11 students and continue for year 12 general (ATAR) subject students.
What type of device is required?
The school recommends a Windows device that meet our specifications (see our Device Guide and Online Ordering or BYOD parent handbook) . Devices on our portals are all appropriate options.
Students can use an iPad or Mac, however, differences in appearance and function may cause confusion. Teachers will not be able to provide technical support.
iPods, phones and tablets under 10 inches (e.g. iPad Mini) are not suitable.
Will Apple products work with the school network?
Yes. Apple products will work with the school network; however, they are not recommended. See above.
What operating systems will not work with the school network?
Google Chrome OS, Windows 8 or earlier, Linux, Android, iOS 12.x or earlier.
Email
Email can be accessed from any internet enabled device - http://webmail.eq.edu.au
How do students install microsoft office software for free?
Students can download and install Microsoft Office 365 free of charge on up to 5 devices. Download at office.com External link (school email & password required, if you are unsure of these details see one of your teachers) and click Install Office.
Can students use their mobile phone?
Teachers may use discretion for phone use in some classes that do not yet BYOD. Phones are not necessary in any class that is BYOD. Phones are not acceptable for any lunch time use and the school's phone policy is enforced.
From term 1 2024, phones will be banned in Queensland schools and will not be able to be used at all in school.
Where do I purchase a BYOD computer/tablet?
Families can choose to purchase from any shop but we recommend checking our portals, as devices are hand-selected and often include Onsite Warranty and/or Accidental Damage Protection (ADP) as a bundle, as well as delivery and payment plans.
What if I cannot afford a new device?
The purchase of a device is a major decision and a significant expense. A good quality device may last for the duration of student’s high school years and over three to five years the expense is considerably less. Families who are experiencing extreme financial hardship can hire a school device or apply for a scholarship loan. Please contact school administration if you are facing financial hardship and are unable to commit to the BYOD program.
See Hire a Device for more information.
What other costs are involved?
There are no BYOD or internet fees at Mabel Park SHS. We recommend purchasing a protective case for the laptop, a waterproof bag, and wired headphones. The school also very highly recommends purchasing Accidental Damage Protection (ADP) as the cost of repairs can be expensive.
Will the device be safe at school?
Device safety is important at Mabel Park State High School. Students who look after their devices with care rarely have issues.
Students will have access to lockers during the school day. 24hr CCTV cameras are also used throughout the school.
If you are concerned the device is going to be broken, lost or stolen, you may wish to consider insurance for the device. In some cases, you can list the item on your home contents insurance, or you can purchase standalone insurance for the device. Accidental Damage Protection (ADP) is recommended for new devices.
What happens if a hired device is lost or stolen?
Hired devices are the responsibility of the student and guardian. If a school hired device is stolen, it will be reported to Queensland Police to be investigated. A temporary device will be issued to the student until the case is resolved. A lost device may incur a charge of the full cost of the device.
How much time will my child spend on their device?
Devices are tools for learning used along with all the other tools available at school and home (e.g. pen, paper, calculators, books, computers etc.). Students will use their devices when they add to the learning and enhance the experience.
The amount of homework given will vary depending on a range of factors. If you feel your child is spending too much time completing homework, then please confirm homework tasks with their teacher.
Do you have advice about online safety?
Up to date and comprehensive advice on online safety for you and your children are available below.
For students please visit: https://www.esafety.gov.au/
For parents please visit: https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents
Will my child still learn how to handwrite?
Yes. Computers will not replace handwriting at Mabel Park State High School. Teachers will be using the most appropriate mode of communication based upon on the learning opportunity. We recommend devices with touchscreens and stylus support, so students can handwrite when it is required.
Do I need to buy Antivirus software for my device?
No. Anti-virus apps can prevent devices from connecting to our network correctly. Windows devices are protected by Windows Defender.
Can my child charge their device at school?
Yes, though access to power points can't always be guaranteed. Students should ensure that they charge their device at home and use the device responsibly to ensure it lasts a full school day. (If a charger has any damage, exposed wires or has electrical tape it will be coincided unsafe and cannot be used at school. These chargers should be replaced ASAP and should not be used at home either)
What can I do if my child's device goes flat during the day?
Students should get a warning that their battery is almost flat. It is the student’s responsibility to charge their device overnight or before school. There are power points that can be accessed at school.
My device has been damaged at school. Who pays for it and what is the process?
The owner of the device looks after the device. The school can assist in school-based consequences for students who have intentionally damaged other students' property as per school policy. All repairs or replacement of device is the responsibility of the device owner. We highly recommend purchasing Accidental Damage Protection (ADP) for the device.
How to switch a laptop Running In S Mode to the Full Featured Windows?
To upgrade from ‘S’ Mode to full windows please read the following guide.
What opperating system should I use?
Recommended: Windows 11/10
Not recommended: iOS/Mac (high technical skill essential)
Not supported: Chromebook/Android