Parent Information Session about BYOD - Bring Your Own iPad for School

Catherine Mackenzie —

We will be holding a parent information session to explain why we encourage BYOD in years 4 - 8 at Knights Stream School. Our hui will be held in the ruma kaimahi (staffroom) at 3:15pm Thursday, 29th of September

In 2023, we will continue to encourage our students in years 4 - 8 to bring their own iPad to school for learning. This allows us to maintain good device ratios in our junior and middle school and enables our teachers to plan for innovative learning experiences with digital technology across our whole school. 

From 2021 we successfully opened up the BYOD scheme for Year 4 students upwards. A brand new iPad will typically last around 5 years at a minimum if used correctly. So Year 4 and up is the perfect time to purchase.

Should you wish to have your child bring in a device, we will need to set it up in our system. Your child will also be required to read and sign our BYOD Policy before using the device in the classroom. We also ask that devices are clearly named and have a robust, protective cover.

Here is the link to Apple Education pricing and student discounts.


BYOD Process - What you need to know

Step 1

  • Purchase an iPad that fits the following criteria

    • 5th Generation iPads or higher only (this enables iOS and app updates)

    • Provide a robust iPad case

    • Apple Pencil and keyboard optional

Step 2

  • Read, discuss and co-sign our BYOD Policy (find attached and also supplied on request)

Step 3

  • Bring your device to school for the initial setup

    • Devices can be set up for school use on Monday mornings during term time when our IT provider is on-site

Step 4

  • Home use

    • Add your own apple ID to the App Store if you would like to add your own apps

    • Add your own apple ID to the iBooks if you would like to add your own books

    • Create a folder on the app screen to store home use apps 

Step 5

  • Bring the iPad to school charged each day

If you are interested in BYOD for your child and have any questions, please feel free to contact me,

Catherine Mackenzie

catherine.mackenzie@knightsstream.school.nz