Will the Year 9 devices be able to handle the software and storage requirements for Photography Digital Media subjects in Years 9 to 10 and the HSC equivalent?
I've already invested in a device to see my child through Year 12. Can my child still use this device?
I have concerns about the longevity of devices being used for 4 years, especially with the HSC.
Are students permitted to install software on their laptop?
Previously students were able to choose to have a MacBook. Is this still an option?
Will the students be able to store the devices at school?
How long does the battery last?
Is it compulsory to participate in the SLP?
Who owns the laptop in the SLP?
If my child's laptop is stolen or damaged, what happens?
What happens when my child’s laptop is getting repaired?
Who is responsible if another student damages my child’s laptop?
Who is responsible for repairs that do not fall under warranty?
My stylus has been lost/damaged. Can I get a new one?
My child is in Years 10 to 12. How can I opt-in for the SLP?
Will the Year 9 devices be able to handle the software and storage requirements for Photography Digital Media subjects in Years 9 to 10 and the HSC equivalent?
The chosen laptop model for these year groups has been rigorously tested by TechServe under normal daily use, as well as well as under extreme use cases. In both cases the device has allowed for successful video/audio/photo editing and rendering in a timely and acceptable manner. Adobe Creative Cloud software will be installed.
I've already invested in a device to see my child through Year 12. Can my child still use this device?
If your child is in Years 10 to 12 in 2024, they can BYOD and continue to use their purchased device.
If your child is in Year 7 or 9 in 2024, they will be issued with a school managed device under the Secondary Laptop Program. This will improve the schools' safety and security measures, as well as assisting in the classroom.
I have concerns about the longevity of devices being used for 4 years, especially with the HSC.
We know that lasting the four years is extremely important and we certainly don’t want to skimp on quality or performance. As such, we took a number of important steps so that Year 9 2024 and 2025 would not be disadvantaged.
- The HP ProBook 435 x360 G10 has been specially selected by TechServe with four years of performance in mind.
- It was chosen in part, because the devices HP offer the education sector are built with more premium components. Consumer grade devices aren’t as well built or configured, as premium devices. The upshot: These devices are far more durable, reliable and performance friendly than a device you would buy off the shelf.
- These devices will be covered by a 4 year warranty and Accidental Device Protection.
Year 12 is an important year and we want to support our students well. If major concerns arise, appropriate steps will be taken to remediate/resolve the issues.
Are students permitted to install software on their laptop?
All software is managed by the school in order to ensure a consistent and reliable experience in the classroom. Families will not be able to install their own software on the device.
Previously students were able to choose to have a MacBook. Is this still an option?
The logistics of operating a program with two platforms was interfering with our ability to deliver the highest possible standard of digital learning. The consistency provided by a single platform allows our teaching staff to encounter fewer unforeseen issues in the classroom, and our technical staff to deliver more efficient support services. At this time, we are issuing devices that use a Windows operating system.
Will the students be able to store the devices at school?
Devices will need to stay with the student during the day or be placed in the student’s secure locker. Leaving the laptop at school overnight is not permitted.
How long does the battery last?
The laptop has an advertised battery life of over nine hours when fully charged. This should be more than sufficient for a school day if the laptop is fully charged upon arrival at school. The school will assess the need for charging facilities as the program progresses.
Is it compulsory to participate in the SLP?
Yes, it is compulsory for students in Year 7 and 9 2024. Students aren't permitted to bring their own device. Student in Years 10 to 12 will have the option to BYOD subject to signing the ICT User Agreement. Students in Year 8 2024 will continue with the school’s iPad Program.
Who owns the laptop in the SLP?
The laptop provided to your child is owned by the school. The school issues the laptop to your child as part of the School’s Secondary Laptop Program and Covenant’s learning offering.
If my child's laptop is stolen or damaged, what happens?
Deliberate damage, theft or loss is not covered. TechServe must be notified immediately if damage, theft or loss occurs.
TechServe will be available for servicing and diagnosing problems arising from damage.
The cost of a replacement laptop will be incurred by the parent.
What happens when my child’s laptop is getting repaired?
The school will organise and coordinate repairs, including providing a replacement laptop where possible (the school will have a small number of spare laptops to supply students affected).
Who is responsible if another student damages my child’s laptop?
The school will treat any incident according to its policies and will investigate thoroughly and fairly. If it is proved that a student other than the owner has damaged a device, he/she will be asked to pay for repairs.
Who is responsible for repairs that do not fall under warranty?
Any repairs not covered by warranty or service agreement will be organised by TechServe, and any cost will need to be met by the family.
My stylus has been lost/damaged. Can I get a new one?
A new stylus can be purchased for $70. This can be arranged at TechServe.
My child is in Years 10 to 12. How can I opt-in for the SLP?
It's easy. Simply complete this form.
If you have further questions, please complete this form.