For BYOD setup instructions, please see the links on the side of the page.
At Craigslea SHS, the expectation is that our students take part in the Bring Your Own Device program (BYOD). Detailed information about the program and its requirements is available here. It is highly recommended to read this document, as it contains helpful information that may influence your purchasing decisions. Below is a subset of the most important information about the requirements of the program.
What is a BYOD program?
A BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) program is an initiative where students bring their own laptops to use for educational purposes in school. This allows students to access digital resources, collaborate with classmates, and engage in learning activities using their own familiar technology. Additionally, students may continue to access many of the materials on their device when away from the school's network.
Device Requirements
The below table outlines the minimum and recommended specifications supported by CSHS BYOD.
Please note: Devices that do not meet the minimum specifications are not supported.
Ongoing supply shortages have significantly increased computer prices. We recommend exploring refurbished ex-business/government devices from reputable retailers as an alternative to purchasing new.
| Screen Size/Resolution | 12" screen or larger, minimum 1080p (Full HD) resolution. |
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| Processor | Intel – Core i3 minimum, i5/Ultra 5 or better recommended AMD – Ryzen R3 minimum, R5 or better recommended ARM – Snapdragon X or better recommended
| Apple – M1/A18 Pro or newer
Consider using Apple's Education store for a discount when purchasing a new Mac.
Intel Macs (pre-2020) not recommended.
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| Memory (RAM) | 16GB+ recommended
| 8GB minimum, 16GB+ recommended |
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| Storage | 256GB SSD minimum, 512GB+ recommended.
eMMC/HDD storage not suitable.
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| Operating System |
Windows 11
| macOS 26 Tahoe or later
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| Wireless | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or newer
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| Ports/Extra Features | Physical keyboard, at least 1 USB-C port supporting charging and display output, headphone/3.5mm port (or a headphone adaptor) - all required
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| Battery | Minimum of 8+ hours, recommended capacity of at least 50Wh (watt-hours).
Gaming laptops typically have poor battery life - they are not recommended for BYOD.
Note: Some laptop brands will overstate the true battery life of their device. It is recommended to seek independent reviews and testing of a particular device to verify that battery life is good enough to last the school day.
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Battery Life
Devices must come to school fully charged. Significant class disruptions will occur if the device runs out of charge before the end of the day. Charging availability at school is not guaranteed and must not be relied on.
It is the student and parent's responsibility to ensure that the device has sufficient battery life to last the school day.
Alternative Devices
Chromebooks, Android tablets (i.e. Samsung Galaxy Tab) and Linux devices are currently not supported. This is due to the limited compatibility these devices have with the Departmental network.
iPads (8th Gen or newer) are supported, however are not recommended. iPads should have a physical keyboard, and installing apps must be allowed so that it can be successfully connected to the school network. Please see the FAQ at the end of the BYOD Information document for more information.
Recommended Additional Equipment/Services
- Wired headphones/earphones
- Laptop Case/Sleeve (soft or hard shell)
- Accidental Damage Protection (see BYOD Information for more details)
Selecting a Device
A key benefit of the BYOD program is the ability to tailor a device to your student's needs. If possible, it is recommended to test devices in-person to determine if the device's build quality, keyboard, screen size and other features would suit your student.
To aid in this, the below table outlines some of the key features to look for in a device. These features are not required to successfully use a device for most schoolwork. However, they may help with device longevity and aid your student's learning in specialist subjects.
| Performance |
| Students interested in technical/graphical subjects (Design, Digital Technologies etc.) and who want to work creatively (music production, art/illustration etc.) will want more performance in a device. | - Power and speed: consider more RAM and a newer, faster processor
- Storage: 1TB SSD or more may be needed for storing many large media files/applications
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| Functionality |
| Students interested in taking digital notes and/or illustration will want more flexibility from their device. | - Touchscreen; digital pen support
- 2-in-1 or detachable form factor
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| Creating videos, music, scientific data logging etc. | - Good quality microphone and camera
- Multiple USB/display ports
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Portability & Durability
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Ultra-portability and durability could be of concern if your child:
- walks long distances to/from school
- uses public transport
- cannot comfortably carry more weight
- is less likely to take good care of a device
| - Higher portability – smaller screen size, less weight
- High chassis build quality; anti-pick/spill resistant keyboards
- Hard-shell case/sleeve for daily transport
- Accidental damage protection
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What can students access through their device?
Students have access to digital learning platforms and modules such as:
- QLearn (Education Queensland's online learning system)
- Microsoft 365 suite (includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint and more)
- OneNote (digital notetaking)
- OneDrive (includes 1TB of secure online storage per student for schoolwork)
- ClickView video service
- Adobe Creative Cloud suite (includes Photoshop, Lightroom and more)
- Campion MyConnect2 (for electronic versions of student textbooks)
Craigslea will continue to maintain appropriate levels of access to computing labs and facilities for specialist courses, such as Design and Digital Technologies & Performing and Visual Arts.
For more information, please refer to the BYOD Program Information document here or email byod@craigsleashs.eq.edu.au with any enquiries.