What devices are not suitable?

• Windows RT – Any device running the Microsoft Windows RT operating system is unsuitable, as it will not operate under the BYOD network.
• iPads/iPhones/Android tablets – Due to the difficulties in navigating the user interface on devices with small screens or which are incapable of supporting the addition of a mouse, devices such as iPhones, iPods, iPads, Smartphones and other tablets are not permitted as the primary device to be used at school. These devices may be configured and used as a secondary device whilst away from school.

Are MacBook’s acceptable?

MacBook Pro and MacBook Air are both suitable as BYO devices. If considering an older MacBook, please confirm that the device meets the minimum battery life requirement.

Do I require any additional software?

The software to access the school’s system can be freely downloaded from the School website https://view.frederickirwin.wa.edu.au. This will allow all accepted devices to connect to the Virtual Desktop at school and from home, provided a suitable network connection is available. All software required by students is available within the virtual desktop.

Do I need to purchase Microsoft Office?

All students at Frederick Irwin Anglican School have a Microsoft 365 Account, this account allows the student to download the latest version of Microsoft office on their own device.

Do I need to purchase Antivirus?

Each device on the BYOD scheme must have antivirus software installed. If you do not wish to purchase a commercial antivirus product, a free antivirus program will be available for download from the school download page when the device has been enrolled in the BYOD scheme.

Will the laptops be monitored at home?

When being used at school, these devices will be subject to the standard web filtering applied to all school computers. All internet traffic will be monitored and filtered based on the School policies. When used at home, the School does not monitor any internet access and therefore parents may be more comfortable applying a personal web filtering software package.

What happens if my child’s device is broken?

If a student laptop becomes damaged during the course of the school term, a short-term replacement will be made available whilst the original device is being repaired.

Can the devices be charged at school?

Yes. Charging lockers are available in the Library and Year 6 and 7 blocks – 5 lockers in Year 6 and 7, 20 lockers in the Library. These lockers are designed for short-term use, and students must not leave their laptops in the lockers overnight or for extended periods of time. Lockers are intended to be used for top-up charging, students should ensure that their laptops are fully charged before arriving at school.

Is an external hard drive necessary?

Whilst an external hard drive is not required, it is certainly recommended for backup purposes. We encourage all computer users to back up their data, as data recovery from a failed hard drive is usually uneconomical, and sometimes impossible.

Is an optical (CD/DVD) drive required?

No. All software can be downloaded via the school network or the internet.

What can I do if I can’t afford a laptop?

Please contact the School’s Business Manager to discuss alternative arrangements.