Eltham High School|Providing and Managing Digital Technologies Eltham High School|Providing and Managing Digital Technologies

Providing & Managing Digital Technologies

This information is for current or enrolling families of Eltham High School.

Overview.

At Eltham High School, each student has a personal hybrid tablet-laptop through the sBYOD program, providing devices that meet our specs for a transformative learning experience.

  • Creativity & Innovation: Stylus, multiple cameras, touch capabilities & co-generative AI.
  • Performance & Reliability: Meets current network and software standards.
  • Battery Life & Durability: Long-lasting and robust for daily use.
  • Futureproofing: Supports students for at least three years.
  • Technical Support: Standardised software and hardware for ~1,800 users ensure streamlined support and reliable technology for effective classroom lesson activities.

Device Selection Criteria.

The device selection criteria table outlines essential specifications and features to ensure optimal performance and longevity of student devices, focusing on aspects such as age, condition, hardware, and software requirements.

Category Details
General Condition
  • Age: No older than 3 years.
  • Condition: Must be in good working order with minor aesthetic defects only and adequate charge capacity.
Construction
  • Weight: Under 3kg.
  • Design: Minimal moving parts.
  • Predecessor: Known reliable models preferred.
Software
  • Operating System: Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education.
Hardware
  • RAM: Minimum 8GB.
  • CPU: Intel, AMD or ARM architecture. Currently, third-party support for Windows ARM is limited, so some hardware and software may not function until vendors provide compatibility.
  • Storage: SSD with a minimum of 256GB capacity.
Battery Life
  • Battery: At least 7 hours on a single charge.
Features
  • Pen and Touch Technology: 10-point touch and active stylus. Eg Microsoft Surface Pro.
  • Cameras: Front and rear-facing cameras.
  • Screens: Minimum 13 inches or larger.
  • Connectivity: Must have Wi-Fi; no active SIMs within school.

Recommended Devices & Suppliers.

Towards the end of the year, Eltham High School provides a recommended device list, ensuring devices meet classroom performance specs. We also suggest trusted educational suppliers.

Supplier Selection Priorities

  • Competitive pricing and flexible payment options.
  • Reliable delivery and customer support.
  • Packages with useful peripherals and optional school-based insurance.

Eltham High School has partnered with JB Hi-Fi Education as the recommended supplier for their sBYOD program.

  1. Review Choosing the Right Device for Your Child.
  2. Once reviewed, visit JB Hi-Fi Education.
  3. Use Eltham High’s School Code: EHS2025
  4. Choose your desired Surface Pro model and any accessories. Accidental damage protection is highly recommended.
  5. Select home delivery or pick-up at your local JB Hi-Fi store.
  6. Getting Started with Your New Device.

Choosing the Right Device for Your Child.

To ensure students have the best learning experience, it is highly recommended that all students:

  • Choose a device pre installed with Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education from the recommended supplier device list.
  • Add a protective case.
  • Extend the warranty to cover the entire duration of the device’s usage.
  • Choose a device insurance policy with accidental damage protection, as it’s not included by default or covered by warranty.

Starting at Eltham High School (Years 7-9)

For new students, the basic recommended model suits most learners. Consider a higher-spec device if your child:

  • Has a strong interest in visual media (photo/video editing).
  • For detailed subject-specific requirements, refer to the year level Year 7 or Year 8 – 9 curriculum handbook.

Senior Schooling (Years 10-12)

By Year 10, students may need higher-spec devices for specific pathways. Consider advanced devices for students who:

  • Choose arts or tech subjects needing digital media (highest specs).
  • Select science subjects using extensive digital technologies (mid- to high-range specs).
  • Have interests in visual media or photography.
  • Are preparing for university and need a suitable device for early study years.
  • For detailed subject-specific requirements, refer to the year level curriculum handbook.

Device Lifecycle & Transition Guidelines.

Our sBYOD program ensures students have high-performing devices. Although most devices are supported for about four years, they may become unsuitable due to battery depletion, wear and tear, or outdated specs.

Key Points for families

  • New, used, or refurbished devices from our Supported Device List are acceptable.
  • Provide new standard-specification devices in Year 7.
  • Higher-specification devices needed by Senior School (Year 10 – 12).

Transitioning Between Devices

  • Reminders and updated supplier recommendations are sent six months before a device’s exit date.
  • Post-exit date, students may use their device if it remains functional and can run required software.

Parents may apply to have a device added to the supported device list. Please refer to the process in Pg.6 of the Digital Technologies Information Guide.

Getting Started with Your New Device.

Set up your new Windows 11 device following the instructions provided by the school. Wi-Fi and school software will be installed once the device is enrolled in Department of Education (DE&T) Microsoft Intune via the Company Portal app, using your school email. You’ll receive your school email and password after signing the Acceptable Use Agreement.

Benefits of Microsoft Intune

  • Easy app deployment.
  • Automatic updates management.
  • Enhanced security.
  • Centralised management.

Included Software

  • Microsoft 365: Core Office programs (Word, PowerPoint, OneNote, Excel).
  • Microsoft Teams: real-time collaboration, material organisation, and streamlined homework management.
  • Adobe Suite: Tools like Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat Pro.
  • ClickView: Educational videos.

This setup ensures students are equipped with essential tools in a safe digital environment.

How EHS Provides Digital Technology Support.

Eltham High School offers comprehensive support for students and parents to manage daily device use.

Curriculum Issues

  • Contact classroom teachers or Key Learning Areas via Compass or by phone for digital learning resources, homework, learning tasks, class resources, and textbooks.

Software Issues

  • Visit the IT Helpdesk in the EHS library from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM for unresolved software issues. Parents can email 7805-helpdesk@schools.vic.edu.au for support.

Device Malfunction or Breakages

  • Helpdesk can assist with warranty or insurance claims for malfunctioning or broken devices.

Sessional Loans and Charging

  • Borrow devices from the library when forgotten or in need of charging own device. Devices must be returned at the end of each session.

Long-Term Loans

  • Limited long-term loans are available for extended periods without a device. Contact your child’s sub-school or Student Services to apply.

Financial Support

  • While no formal subsidies exist, local organisations occasionally help the Student Services Team at for more information or your sub school coordinator.

Clear Policies for Digital Use

Eltham High School has established guidelines for using digital technologies in classrooms and on school grounds.

Key Points

  • Classroom Use: Enhances teaching, learning, and student achievement.
  • Personal Devices: Managed use during school and excursions.

Digital Technologies Acceptable Use Agreement (AUA)

  • Develops and communicates tech use expectations.
  • Assists parents in guiding children.
  • Manages breaches of tech use policies.

Department of Education (DE&T) Requirements

  • Implement an AUA for digital technologies.
  • Collect a signed AUA from each student.
  • Ensure parents are informed and have signed the AUA.

Further information regarding the Acceptable Use Agreement can be found at the additional section below.
If you have any questions about the sBYOD program, please contact 7805-helpdesk@schools.vic.edu.au.