BYOD stands for Bring Your Own Device. It’s a program that allows students to bring a personally owned, school-approved digital device to use for learning every day.
At Santa Sophia Catholic College, our BYOD program enables each Year 4 student (from 2026) to bring their own device — specifically a Chromebook 2-in-1 (Flip) — for daily learning, both at school and at home. While participation in the Year 4 BYOD program is optional (though highly recommended), the program is designed to prepare students for a seamless, digital learning environment as they progress through Years 5-12.
21/10/25
2-in-1 (Flip) Chromebooks (ChromeOS) is the device we will be implementing for the 2026 Year 4 BYOD Program.
ChromeOS is an excellent choice, as it is designed for cloud-based activities like Google Docs and Seesaw. 2-in-1 model Chromebooks are both affordable and versatile, offering the convenience of a convertible laptop or tablet. Below are examples of 2-in-1 Chromebooks available from our preferred CSPD suppliers (More Information in the supplier portals below).
CompNow
ASI
At Santa Sophia Catholic College, we recognise the vital role technology plays in enhancing learning. From 2026, all Year 4 students will be part of our Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program, using a Chromebook 2-in-1 flip model to support and enrich their learning experience.
These devices function as both a laptop and a tablet, allowing students to type, draw, and create with ease. The ChromeOS platform provides a simple, secure, and distraction-free environment that integrates seamlessly with Google Workspace for Education — the suite of tools our students use daily across the College.
Chromebooks enable students to access all their learning resources through the cloud, encourage responsible and purposeful technology use, and are both cost-effective and durable. They are an ideal choice for developing digital fluency and supporting a consistent, focused learning environment from Years 4–6 and beyond.
Please ensure your child brings their Chromebook to school each day, fully charged and ready for learning.
* K-3 students are not required to bring a device
*Year 4 (Optional) BYOD Chromebook 2-in-1 (Flip) model will be introduced in 2026
*updated September, 2025
The Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CSPD) and Santa Sophia Catholic College have partnered with CompNow and ASI Solutions to streamline Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) purchases.
The College recommends purchasing devices through CompNow via their dedicated Parent Portal. All devices purchased through CompNow include a 3-Year On-Site Care Plan, covering mechanical and electrical faults for added peace of mind.
If you are having issues searching for Santa Sophia in the drop-down menu when selecting a Campus, please note that it is ordered by suburb.
You can search in this field and by typing "Box Hill" with the drop-down menu open, Santa Sophia will be selected.
All Chromebook purchases require a Chromebook Management License (CML) in order to use a ChromeOS device on our network.
When purchasing a ChromeOS device from CompNow or ASI, a CML will be included in the purchase.
Separate purchase from other retailers such as JBHIFI will require a separate CML purchase from one of our preferred suppliers.
This license costs $61.
Looking to purchase from your own supplier? Please see the device requirements to support your search.
Category
Specifications
Form Factor
Convertible Chromebook (2-in-1 or flip model) that can function as both a laptop and tablet.
Operating System
ChromeOS 90 or newer, automatically kept up to date through Google updates.
Physical Dimensions
Minimum Screen Size: 10" Maximum Screen Size: 15"
Wireless Compatibility
Must support 5GHz 802.11ac/ax/be wireless standards with WPA2 Enterprise encryption.2.4GHz-only devices are not supported.
Battery Life
Minimum 6 hours of advertised battery life — sufficient for a full school day.
Memory and Storage
Minimum 8GB RAM for smooth multitasking and performance.Minimum 64GB storage (SSD or eMMC).
Camera and Audio
Must include two cameras (front-facing and world-facing) for video calls and media creation.Integrated microphone and speakers required.
Accessories (Recommended)
- Protective, rigid or padded sleeve- Stylus (optional for touchscreen use)- Additional power supply (optional)
Durability and Support
- Light enough for daily transport- Strong hinge mechanism for tablet conversion- Consider accidental damage insurance and extended warranty coverage.
Click the image below for an example of suitable Chromebook 2-in-1 (Flip) Models Purchases
Insurance Recommendation: It is strongly recommended to secure insurance for your BYOD device.
CompNow Protect: Available for devices purchased from CompNow.
Alternative option iBroker: For devices without insurance but still within one year of purchase, please visit www.ibroker.net.au for options.
Google Workspace for Education
Our Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program enables a 1:1 device ratio from Year 4, allowing technology to be more deeply integrated into everyday learning. It improves classroom efficiency and lets students seamlessly access their digital work both at school and at home. With BYOD, students can explore more learning possibilities through tools like Sora, Literacy Pro, Canva, and Google Drive. While homework is not expected to be completed on these devices, they help students build digital fluency and develop skills that prepare them for the workplace of the future.
The BYOD program for Year 4 is not compulsory, but it is highly recommended. From Year 5 onwards, having a personal device becomes compulsory. No student will miss out on learning activities if they do not have their own device, as the school will continue to provide access to shared IT equipment (1:2 iPads or Chromebooks). The Year 4 BYOD program will officially begin in 2026.
Chromebook 2-in-1 (Flip) devices are cost-effective, sturdy, and built to last. They work as both a laptop and a tablet, with a touch screen and dual cameras that support learning through to Year 12. Students can easily access Google apps to collaborate with teachers and classmates. Each device is configured for use within CSPD schools, allowing students to log in only with their school account—this keeps them focused and blocks distractions like iMessage or iPhone Mirroring. The CSPD Management Licence also lets us safely manage devices and push learning tools, such as the NAPLAN Locked Down Browser. This prepares students for online learning and word processing tasks like Year 5 NAPLAN.
Parents can decide whether their child takes their device home each day or keeps it at school during the week. For students who leave their device at school, charging options will be available to ensure it’s ready for learning each day.
A protective case is a small investment that can make a big difference in keeping your child’s device safe, especially when travelling to and from school. We also recommend adding a name label or sticker to help identify the device easily and prevent it from being mixed up or misplaced.
The device remains the property of the student and their family, who are responsible for any damage or loss. Students must use their device in line with the annual Learning Technologies Agreement signed by both students and parents. A new Learning Technology Agreement will be introduced specifically for Year 4 BYOD, outlining the school’s expectations for managing and using devices responsibly.
If your child’s BYOD device is damaged, the school can provide a temporary loan device (ChromeOS) while it is being repaired. If the repair takes longer than expected, or if you have any questions about this process, please contact our ICT department at santasophiaict@parra.catholic.edu.au
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*Please note, if your child does not bring their own BYOD device, a school device will be arranged for use during school hours to ensure they can fully participate in the program.