Under the NSW Department of Education’s Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) guidelines, students must bring a reliable laptop capable of handling everyday learning tasks.
Schools typically require devices with licensed operating systems, strong battery life, and secure connectivity.
Charging facilities are rarely provided, so a laptop that lasts a full school day is essential.
What are the key specifications?
Most NSW schools recommend laptops running Windows 11 or macOS 15 or later, with 8GB of RAM (16GB for senior students), and a 256GB SSD for speed and storage.
A screen size between 11 and 14 inches offers the right balance of portability and usability.
Dual-band Wi-Fi support is mandatory, and accessories like a protective case, headphones, and an external mouse are strongly advised.
What should parents avoid?
Chromebooks, tablets, and Linux-based devices are generally not accepted.
Schools also discourage fragile devices without extended warranties, as repairs can be costly.
Smart choices for families
Popular options include mid-range laptops such as Lenovo IdeaPad, HP Pavilion, Dell Inspiron, or Apple’s MacBook Air.
These models combine durability, performance, and battery life - critical for uninterrupted learning.
Investing in the right laptop isn’t just about meeting technical standards; it’s about giving students the tools to succeed in a digital classroom.
Before purchasing, parents should check their school’s BYOD policy and consider warranties and protective gear.
A well-chosen device today can support learning for years to come.
• To take the guess work out of your selection, head into Deniliquin InfoTech Solutions in Cressy St, Denilquin and speak to the friendly team.