BYOD Device Requirements
Springfield Central State High School provides families with the flexibility to choose a device that best suits their needs and budget.
The school does not endorse or require a particular brand, model or supplier. However, devices must meet the minimum specifications below and use a compatible operating system to ensure students can access the school's network, software and digital learning resources.
Recommended Device at a Glance
For most students, we recommend a Windows 11 laptop with:
Intel or AMD x86-64 processor
8 GB RAM or greater
256 GB SSD or greater
8+ hours battery life
5 GHz Wi-Fi (802.11ac or newer)
Windows 11
Built-in camera and microphone
USB port or 3.5 mm headphone connection
Students completing subjects involving CAD, video editing, 3D modelling, VR or other demanding applications should consider the higher-performance specifications below.
Windows Laptops
General Learning
Suitable for everyday classroom activities, Microsoft 365, web-based learning and most curriculum requirements.
| Component | Minimum Requirement |
|---|
| Processor | Intel or AMD x86-64 processor |
| Memory | 8 GB RAM |
| Storage | 256 GB SSD |
| Operating System | Windows 11 |
| Battery | 8+ hours under normal use |
| Wireless | 5 GHz 802.11ac or newer |
Important: ARM-based Windows devices are not recommended due to potential compatibility issues with curriculum software.
High-Performance Learning
Recommended for students using applications for CAD, video editing, 3D modelling, VR and other demanding workloads.
| Component | Recommended Specification |
|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i5/i7 or AMD equivalent |
| Memory | 16 GB RAM or greater |
| Storage | 512 GB–1 TB SSD |
| Graphics | Dedicated GPU, such as NVIDIA RTX |
| Operating System | Windows 11 |
| Battery | 8+ hours under normal use |
| Wireless | 5 GHz 802.11ac or newer |
Apple MacBook
MacBooks can be used within the school's BYOD environment. Families should be aware that some curriculum-specific software may only be available for Windows.
General Learning
MacBook Air
macOS 13 or newer
8 GB RAM or greater
256 GB SSD recommended
5 GHz Wi-Fi
High-Performance Learning
Devices That Are Not Compatible
The following devices are not supported as part of the school's BYOD program:
Windows 10 devices — Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on 14 October 2025. Windows 10 devices are no longer suitable for the school's BYOD program.
Linux devices — Not compatible with the school's BYOD solution.
Chromebooks — Not compatible with the school's BYOD solution.
Windows 11 in S Mode — The device must be switched out of S Mode before it can be configured for school use.
Android tablets, including Samsung Galaxy tablets — Not supported as a student's primary BYOD device.
NAPLAN & Exam Requirements
Students participating in NAPLAN and school-based exams must have access to plug-in headphones.
Supported connections include:
3.5 mm headphone jack
USB headphones
Wireless and Bluetooth headphones or earbuds cannot be used for these assessments.
When purchasing a laptop, please ensure the device can connect to a suitable pair of wired headphones.
Apple iPads
iPads running a currently supported version of iPadOS can connect to the school's BYOD network; however, an iPad is not recommended as a student's primary BYOD device.
iPads have limitations where students require:
Access to curriculum software designed for Windows or macOS
Extensive typing and document creation
Applications that are not available for iPadOS
Other laptop-specific curriculum activities
A keyboard can improve the usability of an iPad, but it does not remove software compatibility limitations.
Students are expected to have access to a laptop that meets the minimum curriculum requirements outlined on this page.
Accessories & Additional Recommendations
When purchasing a device, families should also consider:
Protective hard case or durable laptop bag — strongly recommended
Extended warranty coverage
Accidental Damage Protection (ADP) — recommended for devices regularly transported to and from school
Wired headphones suitable for NAPLAN and school assessments
Device charger, clearly labelled with the student's name
Buying a Device
Families are free to purchase a suitable device from any retailer or supplier.
We encourage families to consider local IT providers as they may be able to provide advice, warranty support and assistance selecting a device that meets the school's specifications.
The suppliers below also provide dedicated education purchasing options for Springfield Central State High School families.
Supplier Portals
JB Hi-Fi Education
JB Hi-Fi Education provides a dedicated BYOD purchasing portal for Springfield Central State High School families.
Access the JB Hi-Fi Education Purchasing Portal
How to Order Guide for Parents
Parent BYOD Information
Devices purchased through JB Hi-Fi Education can also access their support service for warranty and service requests.
JB Hi-Fi Education Product Care & Support
Umart
Umart provides an education store for Springfield Central State High School families.
Access the Umart Education Store
HP Education
HP provides a BYOD purchasing portal for families.
Access the HP BYOD Portal
School Login Code: SpringfieldSHS
HP Pricing and Accidental Damage Protection Information
Dell
Dell provides a dedicated Springfield Central State High School BYOD store with selected devices suitable for school use.
Available options may include education pricing, warranty options, flexible payment options and bundled offers.
Access the Springfield Central SHS Dell Store
Need Help Choosing a Device?
If you are unsure whether a device will meet the school's requirements, we recommend checking its specifications against the requirements above before purchasing.
For further information or assistance, please contact the Springfield Central State High School IT Department.