Managed Device Program Information - Year 7, 2026

At Wyong Christian Community School, we’re blessed to work in Christian education, where we can impact students’ lives with matters of eternal significance. We help students navigate our ever-changing world, especially in the rapidly evolving area of technology. Technology brings incredible opportunities and benefits, but it also presents challenges and temptations. We are committed to partnering with you to raise children who are both responsive disciples of Christ and responsible users of technology. We want our students to be effective and discerning users, equipped with the self-discipline to navigate the digital world wisely.

In Year 7, 2026 every student will receive a fully configured and managed laptop, as part of our Managed Device Program (MDP). This will be maintained by our IT Team, for use both at school and at home, for three years. Please refer to the details about purchasing the device further below.

Benefits of an MDP

  • Immediate, secure, and reliable technology from day one. There will be no need to worry about compatibility issues, software updates, or hardware malfunctions. Our IT Team will handle everything, ensuring every student has access to high-quality technology.
  • Enhanced digital safety at home and school. Managed devices will feature robust security and filtering systems, protecting students from online threats and inappropriate content. We'll also monitor and manage the devices remotely, providing guidance and support when needed.
  • Uniform tools that reduce distractions and streamline support. Managed devices will come with the same applications and programs used for the current curriculum, aligned with our educational vision. This consistency will help students focus on learning and make it easier for teachers and IT staff to provide technical assistance.
  • In the event of accidental damage, repairs can be completed at WCCS. The laptop is covered under AppleCare+ with accidental damage protection, which includes an excess fee. The school will cover the cost of the first accidental damage claim. If any further accidental damage occurs during the three-year program, the excess will need to be paid by the family. A common example of accidental damage is a cracked screen, which typically carries a $149 excess.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How will the MDP help improve students' learning experience?
2. What software will be installed on the laptops, and will students be able to install their own programs?
3. What support will be available if students have technical issues with the laptops?
4. Will students be able to use the laptops at home, and will there be any restrictions on usage?
5. Will students be able to customise their laptops (e.g. with stickers, cases)?
6. How does WCCS monitor student activity on the laptops?
7. Can my child use the MacBook for non-school-related activities?
8. Will the school provide any training or resources to help students adjust to using a Mac if they’re unfamiliar with it?
9. How will the MDP affect students' ability to access cloud storage or personal files?
10. What happens if a student transfers to another school or leaves before the end of the three years?
11. Will the laptops be insured if they are lost or stolen outside of school?
12. Can we opt out of the MDP if we don’t want a MacBook?

1. How will the MDP help improve students' learning experience?

The MDP helps streamline classroom activities, providing teachers with the tools needed to minimise distractions and disruptions. Additionally, the MacBook Air’s reputation for reliability means fewer technical issues, allowing students to focus more on learning.

2. What software will be installed on the laptops, and will students be able to install their own programs?

The software required throughout our students' education at WCCS is fully compatible with macOS or accessible via a web browser. This ensures that students can access all the tools they need for their learning experience on the MacBook Air.

The laptops will come pre-installed with all necessary educational software. If students need additional software for their studies, they can email helpdesk@wyongccs.nsw.edu.au with their request.

3. What support will be available if students have technical issues with the laptops?

Our IT Team will be on hand during school hours to provide technical support for any issues students may encounter.

4. Will students be able to use the laptops at home, and will there be any restrictions on usage?

Yes, students will be able to use the laptops at home. The web filtering software will continue to provide protection, though it will be less restrictive than at school to allow for access to streaming platforms and other home activities.

5. Will students be able to customise their laptops (e.g. with stickers, cases)?

Students are allowed to put stickers on the protective case provided by the school, however, we ask that they avoid permanent customisations that could damage the laptop. They are not permitted to remove or replace the protective case, as this could lead to accidental damage, such as screen cracks if done improperly.

6. How does WCCS monitor student activity on the laptops?

The laptops will have web filtering software installed, to block inappropriate content both at school and home to ensure students’ online safety. Monitoring of student activity is only conducted during school hours to provide teachers with the tools they need to help students stay focused and on task in the classroom.

7. Can my child use the MacBook for non-school-related activities?

Yes, students will be able to use the MacBook for personal activities like browsing the web or streaming, provided these do not interfere with their schoolwork or violate the school’s Acceptable Use Policy. At school, however, the laptops should primarily be used for educational purposes.

8. Will the school provide any training or resources to help students adjust to using a Mac if they’re unfamiliar with it?

While we won’t be running formal training sessions, we will provide a list of helpful videos and resources that students can use to get up to speed with using a Mac. These resources will cover the basics and should be a good starting point for any student unfamiliar with the platform.

9. How will the MDP affect students' ability to access cloud storage or personal files?

Students will still have access to cloud storage solutions like OneDrive, iCloud Drive, and Google Drive, allowing them to store and access personal files as needed. The school’s management of the device won’t restrict them from syncing or backing up personal files to the cloud.

10. What happens if a student transfers to another school or leaves before the end of the three years?

If a student transfers to another school or leaves before the end of the three years, WCCS will remove the laptop from our Mobile Device Management (MDM) system. This ensures the laptop can be set up and used at the student’s new school or for personal use without restrictions. Families must inform our IT Team, and we’ll ensure the device is ready to go with no school management software remaining.

11. Will the laptops be insured if they are lost or stolen outside of school?

If the laptop is lost or stolen, parents and guardians will be responsible for covering the cost of replacement. We strongly recommend adding the laptop to your Home Insurance Policy or purchasing additional coverage if this is a concern, to help mitigate any potential financial impact.

12. Can we opt out of the MDP if we don’t want a MacBook?

No, the MDP is mandatory for Year 7 to ensure all students use the same computer platform, which helps to reduce technical issues and provide a more streamlined learning experience. This also allows our IT Team to manage and support the devices.

Secondary School Digital Citizenship & Acceptable Use of ICT Agreement

RESPECT YOURSELF - Psalm 139:13-16

I will show respect for myself through my actions. I will select online names that are appropriate. I will consider the information and images I post online. I will not post personal information about my life on the internet for all to access. I will not be obscene.

PROTECT YOURSELF - Psalm 1

I will ensure that the information I post online will not put me at risk. I will not publish my personal details, contact details or a schedule of my activities. I will report any attacks or inappropriate behaviour directed at me. I will protect passwords, accounts and resources.

RESPECT OTHERS - Philippians 2:3-11

I will show respect to others. I will not use electronic mediums to flame, bully, harass, or stalk other people. I will show respect for other people in my choice of websites. I will not visit sites that are degrading, pornographic, racist, or inappropriate. I will not abuse my rights of access and I will not enter other people’s private spaces or areas.

PROTECT OTHERS - Galatians 6:1-10

I will protect others by reporting abuse, not forwarding inappropriate materials or communications, and not visiting sites that are degrading, pornographic, racist, or inappropriate.

RESPECT PROPERTY - Matthew 25:14-30

I will treat others’ property appropriately and not seek to actively damage it in any way. I will respect the intellectual property of others by appropriately referencing sources used. I will also avoid all opportunities for piracy - which is stealing in an online world.

PROTECT PROPERTY - Ephesians 4:28

I will request to use the software and media others produce. I will use free and open-source alternatives rather than pirating software. I will purchase, license, and register all software. I will purchase my music and other media, and refrain from distributing these in a manner that violates their licenses. I will act with integrity and in accordance with biblical principles.