BYOD

Glenbrook School Digital Devices 2026

At Glenbrook School we want to ensure that digital learning supports, rather than replaces, the foundations that help our tamariki flourish. Our direction for 2026 has been shaped by careful reflection on what is best for our learners, the expertise of our kaiako, and the expectations of the refreshed curriculum.

We also recognise that children develop at different stages. In the early years, aakonga need rich opportunities to grow their oral language, fine motor skills, and social confidence. As they progress through the school, they are increasingly ready to use digital tools in more independent and purposeful ways. By introducing devices from Year 3 onwards, we can ensure digital learning is age-appropriate and meaningful.

A clear, consistent system helps all students feel confident and supported. It allows us to maintain the strong foundations of literacy, numeracy, language, and social development that are central to who we are as a school, while also preparing our learners for the growing digital demands of the world around them

Digital Device Expectations for 2026

Years 0–2
Our youngest learners will not be using personal digital devices at school from 2026 unless needed for a specific online intervention or assessment. 

This decision reflects our strong focus on the foundations of learning, including:

• Fine and gross motor skill development
  
• Oral language and early literacy
  
• Play-based and hands-on learning
  
• Social interaction and collaboration
  

These early years are crucial for building the competencies that underpin later success with digital learning.

Years 3–8 

From 2026, all students in Years 3–8 will be required to have their own digital device for learning.

Recommended Device and Accessories

• Chromebook (this is most compatible with school systems, reliable, securely filtered, and cost-effective). We are a google docs school. 
• A hard-cover protective case
• Headphones (clearly named)

Important notes

• Devices will no longer be shared or supplied in classrooms.
  Unfortunately, significant damage to school-owned devices this year means this model is no longer sustainable.
• Devices will be used daily as part of our structured literacy, mathematics, inquiry, collaborative learning programmes, and assessment. 

Device Hire Option

For whaanau who prefer not to purchase a device outright, Glenbrook School will offer a limited number of hire devices.

• The device will remain at school. 
• It will be allocated solely to that child (not shared)
• Parents/caregivers are responsible for any damage, repairs, or replacement costs
• A termly hire fee of $40 per term payable in advance will apply.

This option recognises that families have differing needs while ensuring every child can participate equitably in digital learning. Please complete the attached form if you wish to hire a device for your child in 2026. 

Why These Changes?

We are committed to ensuring:

• A consistent and reliable digital learning environment
  
• Responsibility and care for personal equipment
  
• Greater protection of school property
  
• Stronger alignment with our teaching programmes and curriculum expectations
  

These decisions support high-quality learning for all aakonga, and allow teachers to plan effectively without device availability issues.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss the hire option, please contact the school office. We will also send a follow-up information sheet outlining costs and setup requirements.

Thanks Team,

Ms Lysandra Stuart