Gilroy is a BYOLT (Bring Your Own Learning Technology) school.

A wealth of studies identify the positive benefits of infusing technology into the classroom and this has motivated Gilroy to pursue a 1:1 technology program in the College.

Technology is creating and shaping our present and our future. For students to become independent, collaborative and self-motivated learners, they need to be skilled in its use and applications in their daily social and working lives.

BYOLD Program at Gilroy Catholic College Castle Hill

Device Requirements

Students are required to bring their own device as part of their Gilroy education. Please refer to the specifications below when purchasing devices.
Years 7 to 9 (iPads only) - all models below are acceptable, higher spec models may be purchased at your discretion
Product Screen Storage (Min)
iPad (9th gen) 10.2" 64GB
iPad Pro  11" 128GB
iPad Air 10.9" 64GB
Years 10 to 12 (MacBooks only) - models below are acceptable, higher spec models may be purchased at your discretion
Product Screen Storage (Min)
MacBook Pro 13" 256GB
MacBook Air - M1 13" 256GB

Purchasing a Device

To assist in minimising the cost of purchasing these devices, Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese has worked with one of their preferred suppliers of Apple products, Compnow, to set up a Parent Portal. This is a secure portal that enables parents to purchase devices, bags and accessories at discount educational pricing.

Parents can also purchase from Apple stores in person, online, and any other retailer, such as Harvey Norman or JB Hi-Fi.

Visit the Compnow Parent Portal

Visit JB Hi-Fi Education Online

BYOLT Student Rules and Responsibilities

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can I buy a model that is better than the ones listed above?

Yes! The listed models are minimum specification. Parents are welcome to buy a device with larger screen or which exceeds the recommended specifications at your own discretion. Please do not buy a lesser model or an iPad Mini (7.9" screen).

If my child's iPad breaks in Year 9, can we replace it with a MacBook?

No, we would prefer you have the iPad repaired or replaced.

It is important that all students in the classroom have the same device. This creates equality and consistency for teaching, learning, network performance, device deployment and management. Remember that some iPad apps are not available on MacBooks and vice versa.

The only exception will be for extensive damage.

Why start with iPads? Can't I just buy a MacBook for use in all years?

General wear and tear, daily transportation and the general lifespan of devices means that this scenario is usually not possible. iPads support the teaching and learning in junior years and are a more cost effective investment to begin high school.

The MacBook required for Years 10-12 is a more expensive item, however, treated correctly it also has the potential for use beyond high school for further study or employment.

Why can't students use a Chromebook/Android/Windows device?

Consistency is important to maximise the learning in the classroom. Specifying the platform equality and consistency for teaching, learning, network performance, device deployment and management.

Why can't students keep using the iPad after Year 9?

The main reason is the longevity and expected life of the device. The MacBook transition is intended to support the teaching and learning in senior school. A laptop allows students to learn the skills of a professional digital device they may encounter in the workforce.

Want to find out more about student learning devices?

For any enquiries or further information please contact Gilroy ICT via the link below. This inbox is monitored Monday to Friday during school hours. If you require immediate assistance please contact the College directly.

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