The iPads are intended for use at school on a daily basis. It will not replace the use of all the tools we currently use in class, such as books, pen and paper. While the iPad should be able to handle most of a student’s digital needs, it is not intended to replace a computer. The iPad is a companion device. The advantage of the iPad is its mobility and ease of use so it is the perfect tool to take to class. When students require specialist computing software, the computer labs will continue to be used.

A list of Apps will be provided to families and these will need to be loaded onto the iPad prior to the commencement of the 2012 academic year. 

These Apps have been recommended by teachers and curriculum experts for their use in and out of the classroom. There will be an ongoing process for teachers to make additional recommendations for Apps purchases that align to their specific content areas. The purchasing and downloading of all Apps will be managed at home.

In addition to the list of Apps we require on all iPads, we will issue a guide on how to use iTunes to load the Apps and will discuss this at our parent information session.

No. All students will have the same number of classes and the same class sizes as before. The iPad will enhance personal contact and communication between teachers and students, not reduce personal contact.

Our 2012 Year 9 students will receive the following:

• Apple iPad 1

64GB WiFi Black 

• Screen Protector / Film

This high quality film protects the iPad screen from scratches and marks. It also provides UV protection and anti-glare properties.

• Kensington Key Folio Pro Performance Bluetooth Keyboard Case (K39357US)

The Kensington KeyFolio not only protects your daughter’s iPad, it also provides a wireless Bluetooth keyboard and handsfree stand. The rubberized keys cushion the iPad screen from bumps and scratches when the folio is closed.

Features include:

• Durable synthetic leather cover protects the iPad
• Provides full access to all iPad controls and 30-pin connector
• Rubberised keys are spill-proof and also protect iPad screen from scratching when closed
• Bluetooth keyboard delivers wireless operation and includes iPad specific keys
• Adjustable stand securely holds the iPad in landscape mode

• AppleCare Protection Plan

Each Year 9 iPad is covered by the AppleCare Protection Plan. This covers hardware repair coverage — both parts and labour — on the College iPad, its battery, and included accessories.

All iPads distributed to Year 9 students remain the property of the College, and the devices will need to be returned in an excellent condition at the conclusion of 2012.

While the College recognises that, after a year’s use, the devices may not look like they have just come out of their boxes, we do expect that the devices will be fully functional and well cared for.

As indicated above, a protective case and keyboard will be provided with the iPad to help students care for these devices, and the focus on "careful and prudent" use of the devices is made clear in the Agreement.

For instance, we do not expect the iPad to be returned with cracks in the glass or case, the case ought not be dented or scratched, the keyboard ought to be in good condition. Further, we would expect all connectivity will work, that there will be no damage to cables or connections, and that all items on loan to the student are returned, when required.

Our Helpdesk personnel will be available to support iPad users. We will provide assistance with technical issues, such as ensuring that the student’s iPad connects to the wireless network and all available services such as email. While our ICT Department will not undertake mechanical repairs, all iPads will be under the AppleCare Protection Plan, so any technical faults will be addressed under this.

While all College owned iPads are covered by the AppleCare Protection Plan, responsibility for the care and safe-keeping of the device will rest with the student. Details regarding this will be provided in our Agreement document.

When the device is not in use, students will keep their iPads securely locked in their lockers, while at school. Students should keep their iPads in a safe and secure place, as determined by their parents while at home.

As with any tool or textbook, if students leave their iPad at home they are responsible for getting the work completed as if they had their iPad present.

iPads must be brought to school each day in a fully charged condition. Students need to charge their iPads each evening: we ask that, once her homework is complete, your daughter takes responsibility for placing her iPad on charge in her parents’ bedroom, overnight.

While the iPad does not have a folder structure nor supports a USB, your daughter can still easily manage and transfer files. The iPad’s file management interface is very user-friendly. You can:

• connect it to your home Windows PC or Mac to transfer files;
• email files;
• use free Cloud storage .

We see great benefits in moving away from a reliance on USBs and external hard drives for storing files, and files are actually more safely stored in the Cloud.

The iPad is a wireless device that is most effective when connected to the internet. We have wireless access for all students across the campus at Seymour. If you already have wireless internet at home, the iPad will easily connect to this. If you do not have wireless, you can still access iTunes from your PC, and then download Apps to your iPad.  (We will discuss this at our parent information session.) Wireless routers are not overly expensive; you might consider talking to your internet service provider about options.

It is very important to check what type of internet plan you are on. Some plans charge you if you go over your monthly download allowance, others give unlimited downloads and slow your connection down if you go over your monthly limit. The unlimited plans are the safest and best value. We suggest you check with your ISP (Internet Service Provider): if they cannot offer you a competitive price, it is worth making inquiries to change to another provider.

Yes. Students must have an iTunes account to add or sync Apps. Each student may use her current account, if she has one. We will discuss the options for setting up an iTunes account in our parent information sessions. Parents will be responsible for the cost of the Apps. The College will carefully manage this so that costs are kept to a minimum.

An iTunes account can be created without a credit card. iTunes gift cards can be used to credit the account so that purchases can be made to buy Apps. Once the value of the gift card has been exhausted, no further purchases can be made until another gift card is added. 

iTunes cards can be purchased from most major supermarkets and variety stores.

Parents have the ability to control the installation of Apps and can set up an iPad to require a password to make any changes to the configuration of the iPad, including Apps or music purchases. We will review all of this information during our parent information sessions.

Our ultimate goal is that the iPad will replace the need for students to carry textbooks. However, with textbook publishers still working hard to catch up with technology, we see 2012 as a transition year where some textbooks will be available on the iPad, while others will still be in the traditional textbook form.

It doesn't matter what you have at home: the iPad will sync, backup and talk to either PC or Mac desktops or laptops. Again, we will cover this at our information session.

Yes, there will be introductory sessions for all students at the beginning of, and throughout, the 2012 academic year.

Yes, we will provide a parent information session.

While using the College wireless network, all online content will be filtered to prevent students accessing inappropriate content. Provision of internet security and appropriate use at home will continue to be the responsibility of families. The College encourages parents to discuss expectations with their child regarding appropriate use of the device.

Regarding viruses, the iPad is a very secure device for downloading Apps and researching online. All Apps and updates are installed via iTunes and the Apps Store.

This continues to be a joint responsibility of the College and family. All students and parents are asked to sign an Acceptable Use Agreement, and will be invited to attend an information session prior to taking ownership of the iPad. Additionally, our personal development programs will continue to focus on the appropriate use of technology.

As with all technical devices with backlit screens, it is important to manage and monitor daily 'screen time' and find a balance that works for each student. The iPad can be adjusted for brightness to suit personal preferences. Not all school related work will be completed on the iPad so there will always be a balance during the school day.

Yes. It is important that students use these devices responsibly, and we will be working with families to ensure this is the case. Parents can set various controls: we will cover these features during our parent information sessions.