Waihī College is a BYOD school (Bring Your Own Device). Students are required to have a device for their classes from Year 7 through to Year 13. Students and teachers are working more and more with digital platforms for the distribution and completion of work in the classroom. By students having their own device, there is a seamless link between home and in school learning and the student can personalise their device to suit their own needs.
WHAT SORT OF DEVICE DO I NEED?
For most students a standard Chromebook is sufficient. Chromebooks have already built in Google suites including Google classroom that is used throughout the College. For senior students in Year 12 and 13 who have more specialised courses or are thinking of moving on to University they may wish to purchase a laptop.
WHERE CAN I GET A DEVICE?
You can purchase a device from most electronic retailers and they often have some good sale prices (particularly Black Friday and Boxing Day deals). Purchasing a device is often something that can be financially supported by family members as a Christmas gift.
WHAT IF I AM UNABLE TO PURCHASE A DEVICE?
Waihi College will have devices available for students to lease should they be unable to purchase one themselves. Students will pay a bond to lease the device for the year, they will take the device home and use it as their own for the year. Parents/caregivers and students will sign a contract agreeing to maintain the condition and return of the device with any loss or damage charged to the student. Contracts for 2026 are available in the student centre now (devices won’t be issued until the start of the 2026 school year)
