The BYOx acronym used by the department refers to the teaching and learning environment in Queensland state schools where personally owned mobile devices are used. The ‘x’ in BYOx represents more than a personally owned mobile device; it also includes software, applications, connectivity or carriage service.
Bremer State High School does not support Chromebooks or Android devices
Students participating in the BYOx program have the benefits of:
- Operating in a digital classroom – Accessing lesson material, assessment and a dedicated student working space that can be used to collate notes, conduct research and online learning.
- Using software and processes that are consistent with industry practice, preparing our learners for career development and the workforce.
- Have the opportunity to receive electronic feedback on learning and assessment from teachers
For more information about the program and student devices, please see the policies page.
BYOx specifications:
In order to provide a consistent experience for students, it is important the device meet the minimum specifications outlined below. This will ensure the device is able to connect to the Bremer State High School network, printing systems, and is suitable for class activities.
Memory (RAM)
| 8GB Minimum
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Processor
| Intel i3 or greater OR Ryzen 3 or greater.
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Storage
| 128GB + SSD
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Networking
| Wireless: 802:11ax/ac/n
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Battery
| 6-hour battery life
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Operating System
| Microsoft Windows 10/11, iOS 15+ or MacOS 12+
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Antivirus
| Any active and up-to-date antivirus. (Free example: Microsoft Security Essentials)
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Extra considerations:
- Protective hard case to reduce the risk of a broken screen (do not be tempted to buy a soft laptop sleeve).
- Onsite warranty (next business day is recommended – having to send a PC away for a couple of weeks for a warranty repair can be frustrating).
- Accidental damage protection / insurance – may be offered at time of purchase.
- Back-up storage device (USB or External Hard Drive) to back up files on the laptop.
Purchasing Considerations:
It is recommended that parents/caregivers contact a range of computer vendors and consider the ‘total cost of ownership’ including warranty, technical support arrangements and hardware components which will contribute to the life of the laptop. The cheapest laptop to buy is generally not the best option in the end.
The school takes no responsibility for any private laptop purchasing and/or finance arrangements. All issues with laptop purchases or technical issues must be taken up with the vendor/supplier.
Device Purchasing Portals
Bremer State High School has negotiated with several vendors to develop a range of devices and purchasing options for parents. Devices offered on these portals meet the school's minimum specifications. Extended 3 year warranty and on-site repairs are packaged with some of the offered devices on the portals. The school does not endorse or recommend any particular brand of device and parents are free to purchase from any vendor of their choice.
Microsoft Office for Personal Devices
All state school students from Prep to Year 12 can now download multiple free copies of the Microsoft Office Suite to their personal home and mobile computer equipment. Students who want the free software will need an active Managed Internet Service (MIS) login, school email account and password - those who do not have these should contact their school's IT Technician or classroom teacher.
The following information has been designed to support students with the download:
If they have any further issues, they will need to speak to their MIS Administrator.
OneDrive for Students (Cloud Storage)
OneDrive for Business provides a secure place on the internet where school-related files can be stored, shared and synced.
Below is a link to information outlining how OneDrive will function within the department's IT network, as well as information packs for parents and students.
Each student will gain access to:
OneDrive quick start guide for students (PDF, 760KB)
Please contact us at byox@bremershs.eq.edu.au if you have any questions.