Chromebook Plus Program
Chromebook Plus Program
2026 Information Booklet
Mission Statement
Transforming lives through Christ and the wonder of learning.
Vision Statement
To be an inspirational Christian learning community.
Core Values
“Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.”
1 Corinthians 13:13
In establishing the College’s Core Values, God directed us to 1 Corinthians 13:13 “Three things will last forever— faith, hope, and love— and the greatest of these is love.”
The Bible reminds us of the significance of Love, Faith, and Hope pulsing, which guides us as a College community. We desire to reflect God’s Grace and aim to serve His kingdom; those within the community are called to embrace the character qualities of Perseverance, Integrity, and Humility.
Everything is influenced by the Core Values; they shape and are seen in everything that we do. We hope that the College is known by the expression of Faith, Hope, and Love as demonstrated by a sense of Community, Service, and Grace. When our students leave the College, we want them to be young people hallmarked by Humility, Integrity, and Perseverance.
Introduction
In 2024, Northside Christian College introduced a Chromebook Plus Program for Year 7. We look forward to continuing this program in 2026. The Chromebook Plus Program is centred around all students using a standard computer platform.
Chromebooks are similar in appearance to traditional laptops but use a special operating system, which only provides access to approved web apps. The shift to this platform has offered a range of advantages for our students:
● Learning: The devices provide seamless access to all the digital learning platforms we use at school, facilitate effective collaboration and teacher feedback, and can be managed to minimise distractions from learning activities.
● Consistency: All students have access to the same device, ensuring a consistent educational experience and minimising technical disparities.
● Security: Chromebooks are known for their strong security features, providing a safer online environment for our students, which is a priority for the College.
● Accountability: With standardised devices, we are able to more effectively monitor and manage students’ activities, ensuring responsible usage and increasing focus on learning activities.
● Technical Support: The Chromebook Plus Program has streamlined technical support, which reduces downtime and provides students with improved access to assistance.
It is therefore a requirement that all students in 2026 Years 7 - 9 have a schoolapproved Chromebook Plus device.
The College completed extensive research and has chosen a device that is reliable, represents good value for money, has proven long battery life, and offers seamless access to digital resources and tools used across the curriculum at Northside.
Importantly, the Chromebook Plus device comes pre-configured to our school network, providing access to the College’s wireless network, printing services and software updates. It also comes with a three-year extended warranty, which ensures it can be supported by the College’s IT team, thus minimising disruptions to learning.
It is the College’s position that the use of a standard platform supports both students and teachers to get the most out of the investment; for example, knowing all students have the same device in each class greatly helps teachers plan activities that use technology effectively to enhance student learning. For these reasons, students are expected to use only the College-approved device at school.
Thank you for your understanding and support as we continue to enhance the educational experience for our students.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Chromebook?
● Chromebooks are a cost-effective education-focused laptop that runs Chrome OS (operating system) designed to be utilised with the Google Workspace For Education.
● Google Workspace For Education is a collection of productivity tools designed to help students and teachers collaborate and interact seamlessly and securely across devices.
● The Google Workspace includes Gmail, Google Drive, Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Meet, as well as other tools such as Google Calendar, Google Chat, and Google Sites.
● Google Workspace For Education is already extensively used by Northside Christian College students and teachers.
Why Chromebooks?
Chromebooks are ideal for use in a school learning environment. Chromebooks provide the teaching and learning benefits of computers without the typical distractions that come with technology in the classroom. Furthermore they:
● Enhance student communication and collaboration opportunities.
● Are reliable, and automatically kept up to date, with in-built virus protection.
● Are designed to be easy to use, have a fast boot time, and have quick access to web applications.
● Save work automatically to the cloud.
● Proven long battery life that should easily last for an entire school day.
● Are durable.
Will students be required to take the Chromebook to school each day?
Students will be required to take the Chromebook to school each day. The device will assist students to participate in class activities and complete classwork and revision tasks. It is expected that students will recharge their devices overnight, ready for a full day's use at Northside. We ask all parents to ensure the device is used responsibly at home.
Do we need to purchase any software for the Chromebook?
Chromebooks uses the Chrome operating system which comes preloaded with software that is required for College use, as well as having the ability to apply updates when required. They are primarily designed to access web-based platforms which the College already provides access to. No additional purchasing of software is required.
Will students use their Chromebooks in every lesson?
Chromebooks will be integrated within a wide range of teaching and learning activities - our teachers will determine when students should use their devices. Students must, however, bring their device every day (unless explicitly instructed otherwise), as our curriculum is specifically tailored around the Chromebook capabilities and integration into the College network and services.
Can students take it into the yard at lunchtime?
Students are to store their Chromebooks safely in their locker while not in class. Under normal circumstances, students should not be using web-connected digital devices during break times.
Why do we need Chromebooks? Can I use an existing Chromebook/notebook/tablet, or purchase a different device for my child?
The College requires all students in 2026 Year 7 - 9 to purchase the Chromebook Plus through the College Chromebook Plus Program. We have undertaken extensive research and chosen a device that is reliable, has proven long battery life, is cost-effective, and is fast to boot and run web applications. It is ideal for use in a school learning environment. Moreover, the Teaching and Learning Program will be designed with Chromebook Plus devices and Google Suite functionality in mind and it plays a vital role in delivering an effective and engaging curriculum.
We recognise that the Chromebook Plus is the optimal device for the College learning environment. Families are welcome to use other devices at home to support learning and other activities.
The Chromebooks will be preconfigured to connect to the College’s wireless network and printing services.
We have also found Chromebooks to be very fast for students to use in the classroom, particularly in comparison to Macbooks and Windows laptops. This maximises effective learning time at school and minimising downtime.
What if we do not purchase a Chromebook through the College-approved supplier? It is expected that all students in 2026 Years 7 - 9 will be using the same College-approved device.
If you do not purchase the College-approved device, your child will not be able to access the College’s network or learning platforms. Having the designated device ensures your child has the right tools and software needed for your child's learning. It is important everyone uses the same device so we can support our students quickly and keep everything running smoothly.
To avoid future issues or stress, we strongly recommend that you purchase your child’s Chromebook through the College-approved supplier.
What happens if the device is damaged?
The manufacturer’s warranty for Chromebooks covers all damage except for loss. Any defects or damage occurring through normal use are included under this warranty. If a device needs repair, a loaner Chromebook will be provided to the student, subject to availability. However, damage resulting from negligent or malicious behaviour may not be covered by the warranty. If a student loses their Chromebook, the family is responsible for the replacement cost. Similarly, the family is expected to cover repair costs for any damage caused by negligence or malicious actions. The College will make every effort to minimize repair costs, with the maximum charge not exceeding the cost of the device.
In addition, the College will have some spare Chromebooks for students to use on a shortterm basis while their own device is being repaired. Because of the nature of Chromebooks, the student will have a seamless experience, able to log into their own account and access all their documents and resources, meaning learning is uninterrupted.
How will students charge their Chromebooks if batteries run low in class?
It is expected that students will recharge their Chromebooks overnight, ready for a full day’s use at College. These devices have a battery life of up to 10 hours - ample time to use in class all day if fully charged. A limited supply of charging stations will be available at the College. The College will not allow students to plug their own chargers into classroom power or around the campus as leads can cause tripping hazards.
Using the Chromebook at School: Student Expectations
Chromebooks play an important part in our teaching and learning program. Therefore, all students need to adhere to the following expectations.
Chromebook Classroom Guidelines
1. Students should always keep their Chromebooks on top of the desk with the ‘lid shut’ when not in use.
2. Chromebooks are not to be placed on the floor.
3. At the start of the lesson, students should wait until instructed before using their device.
4. Students need to collect all belongings at the end of every lesson checking that they have their Chromebook.
5. Students are not to share their device or password with another student.
Chromebook General Guidelines
1. Students must bring their Chromebook to school and class each day unless instructed by the staff at the College that the Chromebook is not required; e.g. on a school sports day, PE lesson, etc.
2. Games are not to be played at school at any time on the Chromebook. Schoolendorsed apps, such as educational games that are used to support the curriculum, are exempt.
3. When carrying the Chromebook from class to class, it must always be closed.
4. Chromebooks are to be locked in lockers out of class time. This includes during recess and lunchtime, and before and after school if the student is on campus outside of regular hours.
5. If students need to complete work on their Chromebook outside of class time, they will need to discuss this with their teacher. Teachers will determine the best time and work space for supervision outside of class time.
6. Students are not to use their Chromebooks in outdoor areas unless they are participating in a specific class activity that is being supervised by a teacher.
7. It is strongly recommended that Chromebooks be placed in a protective case or sleeve before storing in school bags when the student is travelling to school, going home, or attending a school excursion.
8. Students are not to take their Chromebook to school activities that occur offsite, e.g. sporting events or excursions, unless directed by their teacher.
For additional information about responsible use of technology, please refer to the ICT and Internet Acceptable Use Policy.
Cyberbullying and Harassment
Northside Christian College is committed to maintaining a work and student environment that reflects Christian values and practices. Students are encouraged to consider how their use of computer devices supports them to demonstrate our Core Values, including Love, Community, and Integrity.
Northside Christian College takes cyber safety and cyberbullying very seriously. It is essential that all members of the College community are aware of, and adhere to, the College’s Student Anti-Harassment and Bullying Policy. A copy of this policy is available on the College website. Students are also required to sign the Computer/Internet Access
Agreement, which is sent to all families at the end of the school year, or upon successful enrolment.
Cyberbullying, through the use of computers, tablets, and other mobile devices, is prohibited. Students should report all incidents of bullying, harassment, and inappropriate material (either on or off campus) to their teacher, Year-level Coordinator or Director of Secondary School.
Chromebook Care
General care and maintenance of the Chromebook is the responsibility of the student.
● No food or drink should be near the Chromebooks.
● Use care when inserting cables, cords, and any removable storage devices into the Chromebook.
● Use a protective case or sleeve to store the Chromebook.
● Please do not lift or carry the Chromebook by the screen as this can cause damage to the screen or hinge. Always close the Chromebook before carrying.
● Do not use liquid to clean the Chromebook. Use a dry, soft, lint-free cloth to clean the Chromebook.
● Please do not leave the Chromebook in heated areas for extended periods of time (such as a hot car).
● Place the Chromebook on a flat, stable surface when in use.
Image Source: Freepik.com
Inappropriate Material
While the College has strong security and monitoring measures in place, students may still occasionally encounter inappropriate material online. If this happens, they must exit the site immediately. If the student is at school, they are expected to inform their teacher that the material was accessed inadvertently.
Inappropriate content includes, but is not limited to:
● material that is discriminatory, or offensive to a person’s nature, or to a particular social group. This may include physical, intellectual, emotional aspects, religious beliefs, race, gender, and sexual preference;
● gambling sites;
● material relating to violence;
● nudity, sexually explicit, or suggestive material; and
● language that is generally considered obscene, blasphemous, or swearing, including abbreviations of such.
Ergonomic Guidelines
Posture
While laptops can make our lives more mobile and convenient, they can also take a significant toll on our bodies. Head, neck, and shoulder posture is important when using a device and the following should be considered when using the Chromebook at home and at school.
1. Eyes should be looking as straight ahead as possible, not up or down at great angles.
2. Arms should be at a 90-degree angle.
3. Wrists should be in a neutral position when using your keyboard. They shouldn’t be flexed, or deviated sideways, up, or down.
4. Connecting the device to an external monitor (if available) will also assist with better posture.
Use of the laptop in awkward positions is not recommended. The following positions should be avoided: sitting on the bed, kneeling, sitting cross-legged, lying on a side, slouching while seated, or sitting with the device on the knees.
Managing Screen Time
Screen time refers to the amount of time a user spends on a device to access on-screen activities. There are limits as to the amount of time everyone should spend online, but the amounts and the rules for screen time vary by age. Suggested screen times are based on the recommendations from the Australian Parents Council and the Australian Government who recommend that for 5 to 17 year-olds, non-school screen time should be less than 2 hours per day.
Students can very easily find themselves completely immersed in some screen time activities, such as online socialising and gaming, which can negatively impact their ability to negotiate their online learning and engage in other important aspects of life.
Rest Breaks
It is recommended that when using the Chromebook in a sustained manner, a rest break of 5 minutes is taken, approximately every 20-30 minutes. During these rest breaks, students should stretch their necks, shoulders, arms, and body and conduct simple eye exercises to prevent eye strain.
Lighting
Sufficient lighting should be available at all times when using digital devices. Additional lighting may be needed in some home environments. Glare on the screen should be avoided.
Image Source: Freepik.com
Using the Chromebook Plus at Home
One of the biggest advantages of students using their own devices is that students can complete school work outside of the College. Students are to take their Chromebooks home each night. It is important that charging of the Chromebook occurs at home, as the College does not provide charging facilities for Chromebooks during classes.
If a home internet connection is available, students will be able to use their Chromebook at home as they would at school, whereby they will be able to browse the internet and have access to the College’s Learning Management System. Please note that the internet filters which operate at the College will not operate at home. Home-based internet filters are recommended.
It is the responsibility of the parent to ensure that their child is using the Chromebook in accordance with the College’s ICT and Internet Acceptable Use Policy.
Parents’ Role
Parents play a central role in their child’s learning using the Chromebook. The following expectations should ensure the safe and efficient use of the student’s device while at home, and are generally good guidelines for other internet-connected devices:
1. The Chromebook should be used in a central and communal place in the house and should not be used in a private place, such as a bedroom.
2. Parents should spend time with their children, asking them to show how they have been using the Chromebook, including the online places they are visiting.
3. Parents should discuss strategies with their child if an issue arises due to an online event. These strategies may include informing the parent, not becoming involved in the online issue, and leaving the site straight away.
4. Time limits should be set for computer usage.
5. Students should be encouraged to think before they post anything online, as information is difficult or impossible to retract, and your child will lose control of anything they post.
6. Parents should reinforce stranger-danger warnings and encourage their children to be cautious about who they trust online. Private information should not be shared online.
7. All passwords should be kept private. The sharing of passwords is not an excuse for inappropriate use of a student account.
8. Any online profiles should be set to ‘private’ to ensure the student’s personal information is kept safe.
9. Parents should avoid using the removal of the learning device as a punishment. Access to the device at school and for home learning is necessary to participate in the College’s curriculum.
Technical assistance can be sought from a College ICT Technician for issues relating to both school and home (e.g. advice for installing a printer at home).
Ordering a Chromebook Plus
We would like to note that the College will be using an external supplier to assist families with the purchase of Chromebook devices. Every effort will be made to keep the costs affordable, and payment plans will be available, allowing parents to spread payments across a six month period. Our goal is to make this program as financially manageable as possible for all our families.
The College uses an external provider to access large-scale buying power, and access to affordable and comprehensive warranties, which ensures families receive an approved College device representing appropriate value for the financial investment.
All orders need to be made through our College-approved supplier, Computers Now Pty Ltd. These devices are preconfigured to connect to our wireless network and College domain, providing access to specific apps and updates.
Purchases made are private financial transactions between you and the supplier. Northside Christian College does not receive any commission or other benefit from your purchases on this system.
The contact details of Computers Now are on the next page.
Warranty and protection options
Compnow can provide suitable extended warranty and accidental loss or damage options for you.
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Policies
Everyone within the Northside Christian College school community is expected to abide by the College’s policies. Policies are created to assist in creating a learning environment in which students can experience success in a safe and caring environment that supports their wellbeing and achievement.
When working online it is important to remain aware of a range of College policies including the policies listed below. A range of College policies are published on the College website.
● Academic Integrity and Plagiarism Policy
● Child Safe Policy
● ICT and Internet Acceptable Use Policy
● Student Anti-Harassment and Bullying Policy
● Student Code of Conduct Policy
Child Safety
Northside Christian College is committed to maintaining and further developing a strong culture around Child Safety. This includes putting in place procedures to ensure the online environment is used in accordance with College’s Child Safety Code of Conduct and Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy and practices.
More information about our commitment to Child Safety can be found on the College website: https://www.ncc.vic.edu.au/child-safety
Key Contacts
Reception for General Enquiries
Phone: (03) 9467 2499
Email: ncc@ncc.vic.edu.au
Mrs Rebecca Matthews
Director of Secondary
Email: rmatthews@ncc.vic.edu.au
Mr Alister Smith
I.T. Manager
Email: it@ncc.vic.edu.au
Mr Joshua Slewa
IT Help/ Support Officer
Email: it@ncc.vic.edu.au