Frequently Asked Questions
Can we use a different tablet that is not an iPad?
Nundah State School has made the decision to use iPads for a number of reasons. A tablet computer (like an iPad) is a more flexible tool for a primary learning environment than a laptop computer. They provide opportunities for pedagogical transformation of learning activities rather than just substitution for existing teaching practises. The iPad has been selected as the Department of Education does not support Android device usage on a large scale due to the variance in operating system requirements. iPads also have a much larger range of quality apps to allow for educational opportunities.
What are the minimum requirements needed for the iPad?
Please see the iPad setup information about device requirements.
How much time will the students spend on their iPads in a day?
An iPad will be used in class when a teacher gives instructions for its use. Using technology will not be done for the sake of it; it will be accessed when it is thought to be the best tool for the situation. There will be some lessons/blocks of the day or even whole days when technology is not needed, or not thought to have any benefit for the learning that is going on. Alternatively, there will be some days, where using technology may happen in every lesson. There will not be a fixed amount of time for using technology, it is a tool that students shall have with them in the classroom to use when it is appropriate. We still see a need for students to use pencil and paper and to practise handwriting. The staff at Nundah are influenced by the SAMR model to develop teaching and learning experiences for students that are authentic, meaningful and match the skills needed to live in the 21st century.
Will homework need to be completed on the iPad?
There may be elements of online activities and elements of written (sheet) work. This will depend on the learning activity and if the iPad is the best tool needed to complete the work. This will be up to the teacher's discretion, but we aim for consistency across the year levels in the approach.
Will I be expected to purchase a new iPad and do I have to purchase from a particular store?
See our information about Where to buy an iPad
Can I buy a second-hand iPad? What do I need to be aware of?
Yes. Every iPad has a serial number and with this number, Apple track the date and place of purchase, length of any remaining warranty and whether it has been reported as stolen. Before buying a used iPad, it may be worthwhile noting the serial number and contacting Apple Care.
How long will the iPad last? When will I need to replace this device?
Generally, an iPad has a life span of 3-4 years before needing to be replaced or upgraded. Although, when treated well, the device will continue to operate well past this timeframe. The school requirement is that the iPad can run the latest version of the operating system (iPadOS) for that year, in order to access all required apps and functions.
Who is responsible for insuring the device?
Because the iPad will belong to the family, it will be the family's responsibility to insure the iPad if it is lost or damaged. It is recommended that families consider including the iPad in their home contents insurance. Apple Care Plus for iPad provides up to two years of technical support and additional hardware coverage from Apple, including up to two incidents of accidental damage coverage, each subject to a service fee. JB HiFi also offers a similar level of coverage that you can opt in to if purchasing through the JB HiFi BYO portal.
Should we purchase a case and/or cover for the iPad, and if so, which one should we buy?
Yes, a case is required as it will minimise the risk of damage to the iPad. We suggest that the cover is one that 'closes' over the iPad with a front cover–keyboard preferable. We also recommend a waterproof cover, to protect the iPad in case of drink spillage in school bags. There are many competitively priced cases and covers online or you can choose to purchase from a department store. Please check that the case fits the iPad model you have as there are small variations in size between models.
Will my child need a Bluetooth/iPad cabled keyboard?
A keyboard is essential, but the type is at the discretion of the parents. The onscreen keyboard is not always suitable as it greatly reduces the 'screen size' available for viewing. An external keyboard is also highly beneficial for ergonomic reasons as well as to develop students' typing abilities.
Who is responsible for charging the device?
It is the child's responsibility to bring the iPad to school fully-charged each day.
Do you allow the use of Messages on the personal iPads?
When at school, messaging is not appropriate for students to use, even to contact family members. The use of this program during learning time will constitute a breach of our behaviour expectations. Where online communication is required at school, we will use Department of Education supported methods such as email or Microsoft Teams.
Should my child be messaging their friends?
Instant messaging can help your child to build relationships and social skills. If you choose to allow your children to connect with their friends online, encourage them to be Cyber Smart as they learn to use this technology. Some suggestions are for you to:
- Encourage children to talk more in person than they do online (particularly for younger children)
- Turn off notifications
- Establish positive boundaries about how to behave when chatting with friends:
- Only say or do online what you would do face to face.
- Think before posting photos or comments (Do I have permission to send this? What would my friends/ parents say?)
- Walk away from online arguments.
- Tell a safe adult when they feel upset or unsafe.
See the section about Messaging and group chats in the iPads at Home page here or visit RaisingChildren.net.au for more information.
Should my child be on social media?
Short answer, no.
Both the physical age of your child and their level of maturity and resilience can affect their ability to have positive experiences on social media. Each social media site and app has its own criteria for minimum age requirements. Most apps require users to be at least 13 years of age before they can register, and the government is introducing age restrictions as of January 2026.
Click here for more information from the Office of the eSafety Commissioner
How will inappropriate behaviour on the iPad be managed?
The use of the iPad in school is always at the teacher's discretion. If the teacher has not asked students to use the iPad then it should left alone. Most teachers will require that iPads are stored away from student desks. If the teacher feels that a student has not been using the iPad responsibly then they will ask them to put it away and may issue a consequence (in accordance with their classroom expectations, the iPad Responsible Use Agreement and our Student Code of Conduct) which may include having the iPad confiscated or the school contacting parents. For behaviours deemed serious, the teacher may include the leadership team in the conversation with students around the appropriate consequences.
How could the risk of my child losing their iPad at school or in transit be minimised?
Parents may choose to have the iPad engraved for identification/extra protection –please ensure this will not void the warranty. The iPad has “Find My" inbuilt and with this turned on, it is possible to find the whereabouts of the iPad when it is connected to the Internet. For more information from Apple if your iPad becomes lost or stolen, click here.
What happens if the iPad is damaged or stolen by another child at school?
The school will take every possible measure to protect equipment, however, accidents do happen. Ultimately, the person responsible for the damage will also be responsible for the cost of repairs. If damage occurs as a result of negligence, the school will cover the cost of repairs. If another child damages/steals a device, their family will be responsible for the cost of repairs/replacement. We will do all we can to avoid any loss/damage to student devices and will work with families to resolve any issues.
Who do I talk to if I have a technical problem?
Students will seek technical support through their classroom teacher, the school Technical Support Officer and the eLearning Mentors. All warranty issues are to be addressed through individual suppliers. Parents are also encouraged to purchase Apple Care Plus or appropriate insurance. For other technical issues, please email techsupport@nundahss.eq.edu.au or make an appointment through the school office.
Who do I talk to if there is a behavioural or cyber security problem?
Your first point of contact will always be your child's classroom teacher. If the teacher then feels it is necessary, he/she will make contact with a member of the school leadership team.
What if my question hasn't been answered here?
Please ask. We welcome input from parents, staff and students and will update the FAQ section as the program evolves.