Providing & Managing Digital Technologies
This information is for current or enrolling families of Eltham High School.
Digital Technologies at Eltham High School.
At Eltham High School, digital technologies are central to student learning, wellbeing, and future readiness. Every student uses a personal hybrid tablet-laptop daily, provided through our Specified Bring Your Own Device (sBYOD) program.
We carefully select and support devices that:
- Enhance creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking.
- Ensure equity and consistent access to learning tools.
- Are durable, high-performing, and future-proofed.
- Align with our curriculum and digital literacy goals.
Our recommended devices are Microsoft Surface Pros, supported by our preferred supplier ASI, with bundled accessories and optional insurance.
We strongly encourage all families to download and read our Digital Technologies Guide. It contains everything you need to know about device requirements, purchasing options, setup instructions, and safe use at school.
If you have any questions, please email the ICT Helpdesk.
Device Selection Criteria.
The device selection criteria table outlines essential specifications and features to ensure optimal performance and longevity of student devices, focusing on aspects such as age, condition, hardware, and software requirements.
| Category | Details |
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| General Condition |
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| Construction |
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| Software |
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| Hardware |
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| Battery Life |
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| Features |
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Recommended Devices & Suppliers.
Towards the end of the year, Eltham High School provides a recommended device list, ensuring devices meet classroom performance specs. We also suggest trusted educational suppliers.
ASI the preferred supplier for 2026. This supplier:
- Offers the sale of our recommended devices (Surface and Lenovo).
- Includes the required peripherals.
- An extended warranty including accidental damage.
Choosing the Right Device for Your Child.
To ensure students have the best learning experience, it is highly recommended that all students:
- Choose a device pre installed with Windows 11 Pro or Education from the recommended supplier device list.
- Add a protective case.
- Extend the warranty to cover the entire duration of the device’s usage.
- Choose a device insurance policy with accidental damage protection, as it’s not included by default or covered by warranty.
Starting at Eltham High School (Years 7-9)
For new students, the basic recommended model suits most learners. Consider a higher-spec device if your child:
- Has a strong interest in visual media (photo/video editing).
- For detailed subject-specific requirements, refer to the year level Year 7 or Year 8 – 9 curriculum handbook.
Senior Schooling (Years 10-12)
By Year 10, students may need higher-spec devices for specific pathways. Consider advanced devices for students who:
- Choose arts or tech subjects needing digital media (highest specs).
- Select science subjects using extensive digital technologies (mid- to high-range specs).
- Have interests in visual media or photography.
- Are preparing for university and need a suitable device for early study years.
- For detailed subject-specific requirements, refer to the year level curriculum handbook.
Device Lifecycle & Transition Guidelines.
Our sBYOD program ensures students have high-performing devices. Although most devices are supported for about four years, they may become unsuitable due to battery depletion, wear and tear, or outdated specs.
Key Points for families
- New, used, or refurbished devices from our Supported Device List are acceptable.
- Provide new standard-specification devices in Year 7.
- Higher-specification devices needed by Senior School (Year 10 – 12).
Transitioning Between Devices
- Reminders and updated supplier recommendations are sent six months before a device’s exit date.
- Post-exit date, students may use their device if it remains functional and can run required software.
Parents may apply to have a device added to the supported device list. Please refer to the process in Pg.6 of the Digital Technologies Information Guide.
Getting Started with Your New Device.
Set up your new Windows 11 device following the instructions provided by the school. Wi-Fi and school software will be installed once the device is enrolled in Department of Education (DE&T) Microsoft Intune via the Company Portal app, using your school email. You’ll receive your school email and password after signing the Acceptable Use Agreement.
Benefits of Microsoft Intune
- Easy app deployment.
- Automatic updates management.
- Enhanced security.
- Centralised management.
Included Software
- Microsoft 365: Core Office programs (Word, PowerPoint, OneNote, Excel).
- Microsoft Teams: real-time collaboration, material organisation, and streamlined homework management.
- Adobe Suite: Tools like Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat Pro.
- ClickView: Educational videos.
This setup ensures students are equipped with essential tools in a safe digital environment.
How EHS Provides Digital Technology Support.
Eltham High School offers comprehensive support for students and parents to manage daily device use.
Curriculum Issues
- Contact classroom teachers or Key Learning Areas via Compass or by phone for digital learning resources, homework, learning tasks, class resources, and textbooks.
Software Issues
- Visit the IT Helpdesk in the EHS library from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM for unresolved software issues. Parents can email 7805-helpdesk@schools.vic.edu.au for support.
Device Malfunction or Breakages
- Helpdesk can assist with warranty or insurance claims for malfunctioning or broken devices.
Sessional Loans and Charging
- Borrow devices from the library when forgotten or in need of charging own device. Devices must be returned at the end of each session.
Long-Term Loans
- Limited long-term loans are available for extended periods without a device. Contact your child’s sub-school or Student Services to apply.
Financial Support
- While no formal subsidies exist, local organisations occasionally help the Student Services Team at for more information or your sub school coordinator.
Clear Policies for Digital Use
Eltham High School has established guidelines for using digital technologies in classrooms and on school grounds.
Key Points
- Classroom Use: Enhances teaching, learning, and student achievement.
- Personal Devices: Managed use during school and excursions.
Digital Technologies Acceptable Use Agreement (AUA)
- Develops and communicates tech use expectations.
- Assists parents in guiding children.
- Manages breaches of tech use policies.
Department of Education (DE&T) Requirements
- Implement an AUA for digital technologies.
- Collect a signed AUA from each student.
- Ensure parents are informed and have signed the AUA.
Further information regarding the Acceptable Use Agreement can be found at the additional section below.
If you have any questions about the sBYOD program, please contact 7805-helpdesk@schools.vic.edu.au.