Waimate High School Newsletter

BYOD CHROMEBOOK & LAPTOP 2024

At Waimate High School we expect all students from year 7 to 10 to have and use their own Chromebook. All types of Chromebook are suitable. If you had one at your previous school, bring it to Waimate High.
    by wendy napper

Chromebooks work best with our Google tools in school, they do not need software installed on them, they are fast to start up and do not require regular updates or management.

We add all Chromebooks to our Management System so students have access to printers and shared resources. This involves controlling the device to ensure it integrates with Waimate High School’s ICT systems and may involve restricting or limiting users of the Chromebook and the applications they can run, whilst at school.

A small pool of loan Chromebooks are available for Year 7 to 10 students. In order to access these, parents must contact the Principal to discuss the possibility before the beginning of the school year. 

Year 11 to 13 Students : Chromebook or Laptop

Some subjects in the senior years require specialty software so senior students may opt to BYOD a Laptop, Notebook or a MacBook instead of a Chromebook. Chromebooks are also suitable for the senior years.

Loan laptops may be available for Year 11,12 and 13 students. Please contact the Principal to discuss this option.

How do I buy a device?

We recommend that you consider purchasing a 3 year warranty, 3 year insurance and a carry case with your device. Here are a few purchasing options:

OPTION 1: We have arrangements with Cyclone Computers

Cyclone Computers offer competitive pricing through a secure portal. We recommend Cyclone Computers due to the strength of the insurance cover.

Go to https://byod.cyclone.co.nz/school and select Waimate High School.

OPTION 2: OfficeMax /Noel Leeming / Harvey Norman / Computer Retailers

Chromebooks and Laptops can be purchased either in-store or online through OfficeMax and through other computer retailers. All orders placed through OfficeMax MySchool can earn rewards for the school.

Minimum Specifications

Any Chromebook is suitable. Minimum battery life of 4 hours is recommended.

Laptops, Notebooks, and MacBooks: Minimum specifications to think about when you decide to buy:

· Processor: Intel i5 Dual Core, AMD Ryzen 5 (Equivalent or better)

· RAM: Minimum 4GB, Screen: 11″ or bigger, Antivirus: Recommended

· Battery: Recommended Minimum of 5 hours

· Operating System: Windows 10 (or better)

· Hard Drive: 128GB+, SSD Recommended

Funding from Work and Income

Contact Work and Income to see if you are eligible. We can provide you with a letter to take when seeking assistance.
https://www.workandincome.govt.nz/eligibility/children/index.html