Who is required to participate in the program?
For current families there are three options:
1. Your child can continue to use a School-approved laptop if it is still in good working order (Years 4 to 12).
2. Your child can continue to use their BYO device if in good working order until the end of 2026 (up to Year 12).
3. Your child needs a new laptop - the only option is the new School-supplied device (Years 4 to 12).
The new IT Levy applies only to Option 3 and this is what you are being asked to opt-into as we need your acceptance of the terms and conditions that the levy can be charged in four instalments across the year.
Year 3 students commencing in 2025 will continue to use classroom managed devices so there is no need to register for the new laptop program.
New students:
All families with a child in Years 4 to 12 who is new at Westminster in 2025 will be required to participate in the program, unless they have a School-approved device.
Introduction to the Program
What is the Westminster School Laptop Program?
The Westminster School Laptop Program is an initiative starting in 2025 that provides each student with a School-owned, standardised, secure Microsoft Surface Laptop. This program aims to create a consistent technology environment across the School, enhancing collaboration and ensuring all students have access to the same high-quality resources.
Why did the School choose Microsoft Surface laptops for the program?
We chose Microsoft Surface laptops for their reliability, performance and compatibility with educational software. These devices are known for their durable build, long battery life and high-resolution touchscreens, making them ideal for both in-class and remote learning. Additionally, the Surface laptops are optimised for Windows 11, the operating system used at Westminster, ensuring seamless integration with our technology infrastructure.
Who is required to participate in the program?
New students: all families with a child in Years 4 to 12 who is new at Westminster in 2025 will be required to participate in the program, unless they have a School-approved device.
Current families moving into Year 4: families with a student currently in Year 3 (entering Year 4 in 2025) are also required to participate from 2025 for their Year 4 child, unless they have a School-approved device.
Existing devices: families with a child who currently uses a School-managed device will be allowed to continue with this device as long as it remains functional and fit for purpose.
From 2027 onwards, all students will be required to be part of the School Laptop Program, either on a School-owned device, or on a previously purchased School-managed device.
What are the benefits of the School Laptop Program?
Standardisation: by 2027, all students will use the same Windows device, making it easier for peers to support each other and collaborate.
Uniform learning environment: a consistent technology environment allows teachers to seamlessly integrate digital tools into their lessons.
Enhanced security: the laptops will include advanced security features monitored 24/7 by Microsoft Defender XDR, providing robust protection at School, home and wherever else the device is used.
Comprehensive support: the program includes warranty and break-fix support managed by the Westminster ICT team, with spare devices available to minimise any disruption to learning.
What is a School-approved device?
A School-approved device is one that has been previously purchased through the Westminster School Laptop Portal from either EduNet or Compnow. If you are unsure if your child's device is School-approved, please contact the ICT Team for assistance.
About the Device
What device will my child receive?
Your child will receive a Microsoft Surface Laptop, which comes preloaded with all the necessary software and tools for their education. The device will also include Microsoft Defender XDR, a program that provides advanced security monitoring to protect your child’s device both at School and at home.
What features make the Microsoft Surface Laptop suitable for students?
Microsoft Surface Laptops are equipped with features that are particularly beneficial for students, including a lightweight design for easy portability, a touchscreen interface for interactive learning, and a powerful processor that can handle educational apps and multitasking. The laptops also have long battery life, which ensures they last throughout the school day, and a robust build that can withstand the rigors of daily student use.
How durable are the Microsoft Surface laptops?
Microsoft Surface laptops are designed with durability in mind, featuring a sturdy aluminium casing that can withstand daily use by students. The screen is made of reinforced glass to resist scratches and minor impacts. Additionally, the laptops have been tested for reliability, ensuring they can handle the demands of a busy school environment.
Will the Microsoft Surface laptop be ready to use right out of the box?
Yes, the Microsoft Surface laptops provided through the School Laptop Program will be fully configured and ready to use from day one. They will come preloaded with all necessary software, including educational tools, security features like Microsoft Defender XDR and settings tailored to our curriculum. This means students can start using their laptops immediately without any additional setup.
What if my child needs accessories like a stylus or external keyboard?
The Microsoft Surface laptop is compatible with a wide range of accessories, including the Surface Pen (stylus) and external keyboards. These accessories can enhance the learning experience, especially in subjects that involve art or design. While the laptop itself will be provided by the School, families interested in additional accessories can purchase them separately through the Microsoft store.
Security and Safety
What is Microsoft Defender XDR, and how does it protect my child's laptop?
Microsoft Defender XDR (Extended Detection and Response) is a comprehensive security solution that provides advanced protection for your child's laptop. It continuously monitors the device for potential threats such as viruses, malware and unauthorised access. Defender XDR not only detects and blocks these threats in real-time but also responds to any incidents by isolating and removing harmful files, ensuring your child's laptop remains secure both at School and at home.
How does Microsoft Defender XDR enhance the security of School-owned laptops?
Microsoft Defender XDR enhances security by offering a multi-layered defence system that is specifically designed to protect against modern cyber threats. It integrates advanced detection capabilities with automated response actions, which means any suspicious activity is identified and mitigated quickly. This proactive approach reduces the risk of data breaches, malware infections and other security issues, keeping students’ personal information and schoolwork safe.
Will Microsoft Defender XDR monitor my child’s activity on the laptop?
While Microsoft Defender XDR is primarily focused on protecting the device from security threats, it also includes features that monitor for unsafe or inappropriate online behaviour. However, this monitoring is done within the context of ensuring the device remains secure and adheres to the School's acceptable use policies. The goal is to maintain a safe online environment for students, not to invade their privacy.
How does Microsoft Defender XDR contribute to safer internet use for students?
Microsoft Defender XDR helps ensure safer internet use by blocking access to known malicious websites and preventing downloads of harmful files. It also monitors for phishing attempts and other online scams, reducing the likelihood of students accidentally exposing their devices to threats. With these protections in place, students can focus on their learning without worrying about online dangers.
What should I do if Microsoft Defender XDR detects a security threat on my child's laptop?
If Microsoft Defender XDR detects a security threat on your child's laptop, it will automatically take steps to neutralise the threat. Our ICT team will be notified and can provide additional support if needed. In most cases, the system handles threats without requiring any action from you or your child, ensuring that the laptop remains safe and secure.
Program Implementation and Participation
When will my child receive their laptop?
For those involved in the program from the start of 2025, all devices will be ready for distribution in the week prior to School returning in Term 1 (refer to your emails for specific dates and times), so your child has a chance to use their device and be ready for school before day one. There’s no need to purchase a separate device or worry about setup; everything will be prepared for a seamless start to the school year.
How will the transition to the new program be managed?
Information is being shared in the lead up to Term 1 2025. Families who need to purchase a new device have been asked to do so by opting into the School Laptop Program. We will continue to assist with this process to ensure a smooth entry or transition ready for Term 1.
Can we opt into the program if we are not required to participate?
Yes, families who are not initially required to participate can opt into the program at any time. This allows your child to benefit from the standardised technology environment and comprehensive support services.
What happens if we recently purchased a School-managed laptop through the Westminster portal?
Families who have recently purchased a School-managed laptop will be supported during the transition period. From 2027 onwards, your child will still be able to continue to use their School-managed laptop as long as it is good working order and fulfilling the requirements of your child's curriculum. Additionally, it needs to be set-up by our ICT team with our latest the cyber security suite and active web filtering systems.
Why is the program mandatory for some students but optional for others?
The program is mandatory for new families and specific year groups to ensure a smooth transition and uniformity across the School. This approach helps to phase out the current Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) system, which will no longer be supported for new BYOD as of 2025 with support being withdrawn for existing BYOD as from 2027. The current School-managed devices will be supported until the end of the life of the devices.
Why is it better to have School-owned laptops rather than allowing students to bring their own devices (BYOD)?
School-owned laptops ensure that all students have access to the same high-quality device, creating a uniform learning environment. This standardisation eliminates the compatibility issues that often arise with different operating systems and hardware in a BYOD setup. Additionally, School-owned devices are pre-configured with all necessary software, security features and settings, ensuring they meet our educational and security standards. This approach also allows our ICT team to provide comprehensive support, quick replacements and regular maintenance, reducing downtime and disruptions to learning. By contrast, BYOD can lead to a fragmented technology landscape, where some students may face challenges due to varying device capabilities, software versions and security vulnerabilities. It also provides support and reassurance for teachers that all of the devices the students in their class are using are capable of completing planned lessons, without concerns for different operating systems or software versions.
What if a student already has a similar device at home?
Even if a student already has a similar device at home, participation in the program is required for consistency in our technology environment. The School-owned laptops will have specific configurations and security measures that personal devices may not.
Device Usage and Support
Will the laptops be used in all subjects or just specific subjects?
The laptops are intended to be used across a broad range of subjects to enhance learning. Teachers will incorporate the devices into their lessons where appropriate, making the most of the technology to support educational outcomes.
Will the laptops be used for homework and assignments outside of School?
Yes, the laptops are intended to be used both in School and at home for homework, assignments and other educational activities. The security features will ensure safe usage outside of school hours.
Will students be allowed to use personal devices alongside the School-issued laptop?
The program is designed to create a uniform learning environment, so we strongly encourage students to use only the School-issued Microsoft Surface Laptop for anything related to their schoolwork. This ensures compatibility with School software and support systems. Personal devices will not be allowed to be used on campus.
Can families customise the software or settings on the School-issued laptops?
The laptops will come pre-configured with all the necessary software and settings for school use. Customising the software or settings is discouraged, as it could interfere with the device’s functionality or security protocols.
How will the School ensure that students use the laptops responsibly?
We will implement monitoring software as part of the program, using tools like Microsoft Defender XDR to oversee the security and appropriate use of the devices. Additionally, digital citizenship and responsible technology use is included as part of the pastoral care learnings that take place at School.
How will technical issues or damage to the laptops be handled?
Any technical issues or damage should immediately be reported to our ICT support team, who will either repair the device or provide a temporary replacement to ensure minimal disruption to learning.
What happens if a student's device is damaged or malfunctions?
If a student's laptop is damaged or malfunctions, our ICT team will provide prompt support. The program includes a warranty and break-fix support. Students will have access to a spare device, minimising any disruption to their learning.
Financial Considerations
What are the costs associated with the School Laptop Program?
The cost of the laptop will be included as part of an annual IT Levy which will be billed in four equal parts across the year. For 2025, the IT levy has been set at $800 meaning, the quarterly installments will be $200 each. The fee covers the device itself as well as the warranty, support and any necessary repairs. This IT Levy only applies to families who have opted into the School Laptop Program.
What happens if the laptop is lost or stolen?
In the event of loss or theft, families should immediately notify our ICT support team. The School will provide a temporary replacement device while the situation is assessed. Every School-supplied device will include security features to help us respond to theft, but families may still be responsible for the cost of a replacement, depending on the nature of the loss or theft.
Are there any additional costs associated with the School Laptop Program at this point?
The annual IT Levy covers the cost of the laptop, software, and support services. There are no hidden fees or unexpected charges beyond what has been outlined in the program.