Equip, Engage, Excel – Enrol in BYOD!

Why BYOD at Hillsmeade?

At Hillsmeade, we believe students learn best when they are engaged, connected, and equipped with the right tools. Our Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Program empowers students to build digital literacy, collaborate effectively, and take responsibility for their learning.

From 2026, all BYOD devices must be new or manufactured within the last three years.

Device Requirements

✅ Device Age Requirement

  • All devices must be brand new or less than 3 years old (manufactured in 2022 or later).
  • This ensures:
    • Reliable battery life for full school days.
    • Compatibility with required apps and platforms.
    • Up-to-date security and operating systems.

✅ Recommended Minimum Specifications

  • RAM: 4 GB minimum (8 GB preferred).
  • Storage: 64 GB minimum (128 GB preferred).
  • Battery Life: At least 6 hours of active use.
  • Operating System:
    • Windows 11 (or later)
    • macOS 11 (or later)
    • iPadOS 16 (or later)
    • Chromebook OS (current stable release)

Compatible Devices

  • Windows Laptop – Windows 11 or later.
  • Apple Laptop (MacBook) – macOS 11 or later.
  • iPad – iPadOS 16 or later.
  • Chromebook – with the latest OS updates.

❌ Unsuitable Devices

  • Mobile phones
  • Mini tablets (e.g., iPad Mini)
  • Smartwatches
  • Android tablets
  • Devices older than 3 years

Setup Guides

We provide step-by-step guides to help families set up devices for school use:

Purchasing and Support

Families may purchase devices from a provider of their choice, as long as they meet the requirements above. For convenience, Hillsmeade also partners with approved suppliers such as Edunet.

FAQ

Is BYOD compulsory?
Yes, all students in Years 4–6 are required to bring a device daily.

What if my child’s device is older than 3 years?
Older devices may no longer meet performance or security needs. Families are encouraged to upgrade or explore school loan options if required.

Why does the device need to be less than 3 years old?
Modern devices ensure smooth performance, longer battery life, and compatibility with learning apps, supporting better learning outcomes.

Can my child bring a phone or Android tablet?
No. Phones, Android tablets, and other non-approved devices do not meet the requirements of our BYOD program.

Do devices need to be fully charged each day?
Yes. Students must arrive with a fully charged device every morning.

If you require support or advice, please contact the school office or Mr Singh hardev.singh@education.vic.gov.au