In early 2025 we were excited to launch this scheme marking a significant step toward our ambition of becoming a fully Microsoft One-to-One Device school. This enables us to integrate technology into our teaching and learning practices, equipping our students with the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly digital world.

Our aim is that, over the next year, every student in our current Year 7 cohort will own a device, which they will be able to use in class according to the teacher’s guidance, to enhance their learning experience.

We selected a device that we believe gives the best performance and value-for-money, the ASUS BR1100F 11.6” Touch N4500 128Gb SSD. 

Frequently Asked Questions

If we do not want to pay the cost, can they use their own devices?

They may use their own devices, but as a school we can take no responsibility for any loss or damage to the devices and they cannot be supported by the school IT technicians. The devices would connect to the school guest wifi network, and would be safely filtered whilst in school, although this would be passive filtering such as blocking inappropriate websites rather than active filtering where all potential safeguarding triggers are investigated. Parents would remain responsible for filtering outside the school.

There are several companies selling gadget insurance for relatively small amounts. They include theft cover and accidental damage cover. However, usually these policies limit to two claims a year and have excesses of £75 to £100 for each claim made. Our package includes unlimited insurance with no excess.

Many parents are sure that their young people would be careful with the devices. However, we see bags thrown in the corner while students play football, bags left in the rain, and many other events that will damage the laptop. Other schools have calculated that on average, each computer suffers from two damaged screens across the 3 years along with other damage. The excess payments will soon mount up!

£650 for a laptop for school feels a bit much – why is the cost so high?  What is included in the price? Is software included?

It does feel like a lot of money. However, the package includes many extras:

• The laptop with a full 3-year unlimited warranty
• A pouch to keep the bag safe
• Full insurance against theft and accidental damage – this is unlimited and free of any excess.
• Software required for school use including full access to all office apps online and selected apps downloaded
• Full security from Sophos
• Full, automatic Windows Update service
• The laptops will be fully integrated to the school network, with all the safety filters included. Whilst in school, they will be fully filtered for safeguarding triggers, have access to our safeguarding help button, and we will be able to access the machines to ensure that they are being used appropriately.
• Once at home the security features would still report safeguarding triggers in searches, however to ensure there are no privacy concerns, once off the school site, school staff cannot access or control the devices.

Does the monthly price include interest?

There is no interest payable. The monthly cost includes the purchase of the device, all insurance and a small admin charge to Freedom Tech who administer the scheme.

Is there a credit check involved?

There is no credit check. You will sign up with Freedom Tech for a monthly direct debit which is paid to the school. They administer this and any chasing of payments. Each month they provide the school with a list of payments.