What is a Chromebook?

A Chromebook is a web-based device that you can use to access the internet, enriching apps, and powerful extensions created by Google. Chromebooks boot in seconds and update automatically working at peak performance. The device is does allow any software to be installed. We feel safe from virus attacks, and most software is in the cloud. Here is a helpful site about Chromebooks

Are Chromebooks used in Yrs 7-12?

Due to the range of software applications required in the Middle and Senior Schools, Chromebooks are not a supported device.  Chromebooks purchased in Year 5 will not be used in the Middle and Senior Schools. 


How will Chromebooks be used in the classroom?

Chromebooks offer teachers an exciting array of tools and platforms that can help to engage students and transform learning. They are only a tool and as with any tool, are secondary to our pedagogy. Chromebooks will be used in the classroom as part of a blended learning environment which will see students learning and engaging through a variety of methods.

Will students still write?

Learning to write and practising writing for many purposes is a skill that is highly valued and reflected in syllabus documents and teaching practice. 

School Device Management

Commencing from 2020 the School will be implementing the device management to improve the student’s learning experience;

  • Students can complete the School online tests (including NWEA MAP Growth, NAPLAN and ICAS) on their own device, using a keyboard and interface they are familiar with.
  • Continue to deliver our School defined settings which includes safe search to Google and YouTube and teachers can view and manage the boys’ work.
  • Install the School network settings for fast and smooth experience.
What is the School Device Management?

It is a software management tool onto the student's device supplied by the School. Upon graduating Year 6, the ICT department will remove the software.

What should I do if I am unable to provide a device for my son?

Please contact your child’s class teacher in the first instance.  Trinity will review your son’s situation and see how we can assist. 

Security and Data

How safe is the data on my Chromebook?

The Chromebook encrypts any data stored on it and you can only access this locally stored data if you sign in with your network username and password. could not access any of your personal files without your Google Account, even if they removed the internal drive from the computer to connect to another computer (as the Chromebook encrypts the data).

How do I backup my data?

If you choose to store everything in Google Drive, then you do not need to back up; you can pick up another Chromebook and sign in and all the data in the cloud will be available on the Chromebook.   

If you choose to store data on the internal storage (the Downloads folder) then you need to manually copy this somewhere else safe.
What storage options do Chromebooks provide?

Local Storage Options 
Chromebooks provide a limited amount of internal storage – 16-32 GB.  Most Chromebooks provide an SD card slot so you can extend storage using SD memory cards if desired. 

Cloud-based Storage Options 
Through the School Google Suite, all students are provided with unlimited cloud-based storage.  Students also have OneDrive cloud storage included with Microsoft Office 365. 

What about device security at School?

In the Preparatory and Junior School devices remain inside classrooms during recess and lunch. Safe practices are encouraged but the device remains the individual students’ responsibility.

What happens if the laptop is stolen/misplaced on School grounds during school time?

In the event that the Chromebook is stolen or misplaced, the responsibility for assigning liability rests with relevant Master of School

Will there be an internet filter applied when the device is used at School?
While using the School network the device will have filtering applied to internet content and applications.  All usage through the School network is monitored. This is complemented by our classroom management tool, Hapara, which allows teachers to see browsing activity in real-time during class.
Are Chromebooks freqently updated?
Google aims to update Chromebooks every six weeks, with new features and bug fixes. These updates happen quietly in the background and unless the update provides a large change most Chromebook users will never notice this happening.
Do I need antivirus software?

No.  Since a Chromebook does not provide any way to install local software you cannot get a virus.  You do need to take care, however, when you use web apps as you may provide the app with elevated permissions to the browser or another web app. 

About Chromebooks

What about technical support, repairs and maintenance?

Initial technical support will be provided by the classroom teacher or eLearning Integrator for Years 5-6 who will escalate it to the ICT Support staff as required.  For warranty issues, our ICT Support team can only assist with devices purchased through the BYOD purchase portal. 

What if my Chromebook stops working?

The School can provide short-term loan devices for students to use in the event of a device failure so that students can continue to work while their device is being repaired or replaced.  We try to limit the loaning period so that other students can loan the devices. Parents are encouraged to invest in a warranty for the length of time the student will need it at School and consider insuring devices to cover theft and/or accidental damage.  Devices purchased through the BYOD purchase portal include two years onsite warranty, at School, to help reduce the interruption to your son’s schoolwork.

Can I use my personal Google account on the device?

Students will need to use their school-provided network login (username@trinity.nsw.edu.au).  You connect to your Google account with your network login.

Protective covers

The School requires that each device has its own protective case or cover and is transported inside a student’s school bag, remaining out of sight for travel to and from the School. 

Can we personalise the Chromebook with stickers or labels?
Students may place decals, stickers and labels onto their devices. This is a good way of identifying your Chromebook from other students.
Should I insure the Chromebook?

Chromebooks purchased via the portal do include a package, includes two years onsite warranty, at School, to help reduce the interruption to your son’s schoolwork. You may consider including the Chromebook to the home and content insurance

Portal Information

How do I access the Portal?

You can access the portal here
Why should I use the portal?

The portal was set up as a simple way to purchase devices.  The portal is meant for competitive educational pricing which may not be available via other providers.  The Chromebook device includes two years onsite warranty at School, to help reduce the interruption to your son’s schoolwork.

When purchasing through the portal what parties are making the transaction?

All transactions made on Trinity’s Portal is between the merchant ComputersNow and the purchaser (Parents and Students). If you have any issues making your purchase, you can contact the Account Manager, John Ng and BYOD team on 02 9951 7955. You can also click on the Chat now option on the portal or email at  trinitygrammar@compnow.com.au.  

How will my Chromebook be sent and when will it arrive?

You may select to have the Chromebook sent to your home address or an option to pick up from the ComputersNow, Alexandria.  Orders take approximately 10 business days to arrive, and less for collection. For any queries or changes to the order, please call 02 9951 7955 or email at  trinitygrammar@compnow.com.au.

Can I purchase a device that is not through the portal?

Families may provide their son with a device not purchased from the portal if it meets the minimum specification requirements.   Devices older than three-years old, may not be able to connect to our network and receive the necessary updates.

Trinity recommends the following considerations when choosing a device not purchased via the purchase portal: 

  1. Does the device meet the minimum specifications? 
  2. Does the device come with an extended warranty to last over the Chromebook’s life?  
  3. Does the device have insurance?  
  4. Does the device have enough battery life for use throughout the day?