Welcome to the BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) program. This guide will assist you in setting up your child’s Chromebook with the necessary software for a successful and productive school year. Chromebooks use a different operating system than Windows or Mac, so software is installed through the Google Play Store or as browser-based web apps.
Step 1: Preparing Your Chromebook
- Connect to Wi-Fi: Ensure your Chromebook is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network.
- Check for Updates: Keep your Chromebook’s operating system up to date. Go to Settings > About Chrome OS > Check for Updates. If there’s an update, install it.
- Sign in with a Google Account: Your child will likely use their school-provided Google/Microsoft account to access Chromebook features and school resources.
Step 2: Installing Microsoft 365 Apps (Teams, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook)
Most Microsoft 365 apps are available as web-based versions that can be used directly in the Chrome browser. For a more app-like experience, you can install them from the Google Play Store if your Chromebook supports Android apps.
Using Web-based Versions:
- Open the Chrome browser and go to office.com.
- Sign in with your child’s school-provided Microsoft 365 account.
- Access apps like Teams, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook directly from the Office.com portal.
Using Android App Versions (if supported):
- Open the Google Play Store on your Chromebook.
- Search for each app (Microsoft Teams, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Outlook) and click ‘Install’.
- Sign in to each app with your child’s school Microsoft 365 account once installed.
Step 3: Installing Minecraft Education
Minecraft Education is not natively supported on Chromebooks. However, some newer models can run the Android version through the Google Play Store.
- Open the Google Play Store and search for ‘Minecraft Education Edition.’
- Install the app and open it once installed.
- Sign in with your child’s school Microsoft 365 account.
Note: If your Chromebook doesn’t support Android apps, Minecraft Education won’t be available. Please check with the school for alternative arrangements.
Step 4: Installing NAP Lockdown Browser (Year 5 students only)
- Visit the NAP website: Navigate to the official NAP Lockdown Browser download page provided by your school or the national assessment program. https://www.assessform.edu.au/naplan-online/locked-down-browser#-downloads-
- Download and Install: Click on the Chromebook version to download the NAP Lockdown Browser. Once downloaded, open the installer and follow the instructions to install.
- Test the Browser: Open the NAP Lockdown Browser to ensure it’s installed correctly. You may not need to sign in unless specified by the school or the test guidelines.
General Tips:
- Google Play Store Access: Not all Chromebooks have access to the Google Play Store. Check your device’s compatibility if you plan to use Android app versions of Microsoft 365.
- Storage Management: Chromebooks typically have limited storage. Regularly check and manage your storage to keep the device running smoothly.
- Supervised Accounts: Consider setting up a supervised account for your child for greater control over app installations and usage. However, ensure that your child can have full access during school times.
Need Help?
If you encounter any issues or have questions regarding the software installation, please do not hesitate to contact Hardev Singh at hardev.singh@education.vic.gov.au.