Principal

BYODD Program

In 2025, the College will commence a Bring Your Own Designated Device (BYODD) program that will phase out the use of Apple devices on the College network. From the start of 2028, Apple devices will not be allowed on our network.

New students to the College will need to buy a Windows-based device with minimum specifications and we will ask parents/carers who are replacing students’ current laptops, that they only purchase a Windows device.

What are the reasons for this change to our network environment?

Following consideration and evaluation, we have decided to phase out Apple Mac laptops in favour of Microsoft Windows laptops. This decision has been made to better align with our educational goals and to enhance the overall learning experience for our students.

Reasons for the Transition:

1. Compatibility and Integration:

Microsoft Windows laptops offer better compatibility with the software and applications used in our curriculum, such as Office365. While available on macOS, the integration and functionality of Microsoft Office tools like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint are often more seamless on Windows. This ensures a seamless integration with our existing systems and enhances the efficiency of our educational tools. Many students and teachers are already familiar with Windows, reducing the learning curve and making it easier to integrate into the classroom.
 

2. Cost-Effectiveness / Support and Maintenance:

•  Windows devices come in a variety of price ranges, making it easier for families to find budget-friendly options. Generally Windows devices can be easier and cheaper to repair, and upgrade compared to macOS devices.
   
• Our IT team is more experienced with Windows-based systems, which will result in quicker and more effective support and maintenance. This minimises downtime and ensures that our technology remains reliable, and accessible.
   
• Laptops purchased through the BYODD portal will be better supported through phone support/troubleshooting and NBD repair onsite at the College or home by the vendor.

3.  Security and Management:

Windows offers robust security features, including Windows Defender and BitLocker, to protect against malware and data breaches. It also provides powerful tools for IT administrators to manage and secure devices across the school network, such as Group Policy and Windows Autopilot where used.

4. Future Proofing:

By standardising on a single platform, we can better prepare for future technological advancements and ensure that our students are equipped with the skills needed for the modern workforce

5.  Eliminating the misuse of i-message in classes: 

• Distraction: Instant messaging can be a source of distraction for students during class hours. Unrestricted access to instant messaging platforms can hinder students' attention and focus, potentially impacting their learning.
   
• Cyberbullying: Instant messaging can provide an avenue for cyberbullying, with students using these platforms to harass, threaten, or spread rumours about others. We need to address and monitor this issue to ensure students' emotional well-being.
   
• Privacy concerns: Instant messaging within the College raises privacy concerns, particularly because these platforms are not secure or monitored adequately. Sensitive information could potentially be compromised or abused.
   
• Time management challenges: Students spend excessive amounts of time messaging their peers, leading to poor time management and neglecting other important tasks, such as studying or completing assignments.
   
• Miscommunication: Instant messaging lacks the visual and vocal cues present in face-to-face communication, increasing the likelihood of misinterpretation and misunderstandings among students, teachers, and parents.

Introducing the BYODD Portal

To support this transition, we are excited to announce the introduction of a Bring Your Own Designated Device (BYODD) portal. This portal will provide guidelines, resources, and support for students and staff who wish to purchase their devices for school-related activities. The BYODD portal will ensure that all devices meet our security and compatibility standards, making the transition as smooth as possible. Hosted and managed by HP, you can rest assured that you are purchasing a commercial grade laptop at very competitive pricing not available in the retail market. All laptops come with a three-year NBD warranty with onsite repair at the College or at your home. We encourage all new pc purchases for schooling to be made via the BYODD Portal.

Portal Details:

Website:         SPC BYODD Portal

School Code:            SPCBYODD

For further information, refer to our BYOD Guide on our College website here.

Or contact the SPC IT team at: ITsupport@spc.nsw.edu.au.

Breaking Point: Unpacking the Crisis in Youth Mental Health

7:00 PM – 8:00 PM - Click here to register. 

Dr Justin Coulson will host an engaging, professional webinar for parents and carers that discusses mental health issues in our children and young people.

Justin is a captivating speaker who aims to leave his audience with genuine ‘how-to’s’ so they can help their kids right now.

Join Dr Justin Coulson, Australia's leading parenting expert, as he unpacks the mental health crisis enveloping our kids. He'll cover:

• The root causes behind the deteriorating state of mental health, and who (or what) is responsible
   
• The tools you need to reverse this trend for your children
   
• Science-backed, relationship-focused strategies to remedy school refusal
   
• Realistic approaches for managing screen time in a way that protects your child's well-being without completely alienating them from their peers
   
• Creating margin in your home and family life to protect and promote mental wellness. 

This isn't just a workshop; it's a call to action. Join the conversation and be part of a dynamic, interactive experience where we collaborate to reshape the future of your children's mental health. Hear real stories, explore innovative solutions, and discover practical strategies to empower your kids.

Right To Disconnect

Right to disconnect provisions will commence operation on 26 August 2024. From 26 August, employees will have a reasonable right to switch off and ignore certain messages or communication sent to them outside of working hours (e.g. calls, text messages and emails).

The Right to Disconnect

Under the new provisions, employees will have the right to refuse to monitor, read or respond to contact, or attempted contact from:

• their employer outside of the employee’s working hours unless the refusal is unreasonable; and a third party if the contact or attempted contact is related to their work and is outside of the employee’s working hours unless the refusal is unreasonable.

It should be noted that there is no prohibition on employers (or third parties) contacting employees out of hours, however, the new provisions give employees the right to reasonably refuse to respond to contact.

St Patrick’s College, Strathfield, supports work-life balance for staff and advises that employees are not expected to reply to emails, telephone calls, or text messages from parents (or other members of the school community) that are outside of ordinary work hours (other than in the case of a genuine emergency). If you have any questions in relation to the above, please contact me on 9763 1000 or via email at principal@spc.nsw.edu.au.

Please refrain from contacting staff outside of school hours and if you need to because of your own work commitments, please allow 48 hours for a response.

In Memoriam

We keep in our prayers Michael Armano (6 Orange) his father, Old Boy David Armano ('89) and their family on the recent loss of Michael's paternal grandfather, Bruno Armano. 

Dr Vittoria Lavorato

Principal

SPC boys can do anything! 

**except divide by zero