iPad FAQs
1. Why will the iPad need to be purchased through the school supplier?
Each device will be linked to the school system by Academia through Apple’s Device Enrolment Program (DEP) This puts the iPad into ‘supervised’ mode and prevents pupils from deleting the school profile, removing the iPad from our Mobile Device Management system (MDM), and bypassing the school’s security measures. The iPad will have its own LEH App Store, called “Self Service”, and the IT Services team will be able to push apps to the devices as necessary. Once purchased, the device will be delivered to the school prior to the beginning of the academic year.
2. Will the iPad cost less than it would on the High Street?
The cost of the iPad includes a case and comprehensive insurance. The cost of this package will be less than it would be on the High Street owing to the educational discount. The price of the Apple Pencil is also less than it would be on the High Street. We have found the Apple Pencil to be the best stylus in line with the price.
3. Should I choose a bundle with insurance?
Pupils will be taking their iPads from class to class around school and they will also be using them at home and anywhere else they choose, so there is the potential for iPads to be damaged or stolen. The insurance in the bundle is built specifically for pupils and for an academic setting. It offers worldwide coverage, which means even when the iPad is not at home or at school, it is covered. Academia has a standard turnaround time of 7 working days, as a pupil’s device gets priority service. All devices are picked up directly from school and delivered back to school. All services are official Apple replacements, using Apple’s global repair system to log the work that has taken place. If damage or occurs whilst abroad, pupils and parents must bring the device back to LEH, as the replacement can only be processed by the a company approved by the insurer. The insurance also includes Extended Warranty for the same time period as the Insurance. Please note: the insurance will not cover against loss.
4. How long will my device be insured for?
The insurance will cover your device for three years (two if your daughter will start L6 in September 2023).
5. Should I buy an Apple Pencil, Digital Crayon or Stylus?
We expect every pupil starting LEH to own an active stylus or digital crayon. All new models of iPads now enable an Apple Pencil to be used. The Apple Pencil is very responsive for writing, annotating, and drawing and we have included an option where the Apple Pencil can be bought through our official supplier. There are other styli available on the market, but the Apple Pencil is often the preferred model by pupils. Styli vary in price, functionality, and precision. There are also other digital crayons on the market which work through Bluetooth. It is not a requirement to purchase an Apple Pencil.
6. Will I need to buy a laptop too?
There is no expectation for parents to buy a laptop. The iPad will have the Microsoft Office suite of apps as well as Pages, Numbers and Keynote from Apple. A Logitech Bluetooth keyboard is available to be purchased during the iPad ordering process. Desktops will still be available in school in the LRC, Sixth Form library, and common rooms.
7. If I want to buy a keyboard, what should I buy?
An additional keyboard is not necessary. However, if you wish to purchase one, there is an iPad bundle on Academia’s portal with a Logitech Rugged Combo 3 Touch keyboard case. This type of keyboard case is available for all models of iPad we have made available.
8. Will I have to pay for apps that my daughter will use in lessons?
No. All apps used specifically for lessons will be made available, free of charge, through the LEH App Store, called “Self Service”. If this differs you will receive a separate letter for each affected app.
9. Can my daughter use her iPad for personal apps and content?
3rds to U5: Pupils will not have access to the Apple App Store. L6 and U6: Pupils will have access to the Apple App Store and iTunes. They are able to install appropriate apps and content. However, parents are able to request that the Apple App Store is removed from their daughter’s iPad at any time by emailing mobilelearning@lehs.org.uk. Note: The use of certain apps will be blacklisted by our MDM (Mobile Device Management) system. This blacklist will be viewable on the Parent Portal.
10.How will web access on iPads be regulated at school?
All web traffic from the iPads will go through the school internet filter. The Acceptable Use Policy highlights the fact that VPNs and tethering are not acceptable for use in school.
11.Where will the iPads be stored when they are not in use?
The iPads, while fully insured, will be the responsibility of the pupil and should be stored in each pupil’s locker when not in use.
12.Will my daughter need to bring a charger to school?
The expectation will be that all pupils come to school with their iPad fully charged. If they do so, the battery life is sufficient to last the whole day, even with constant use.
13.What happens if there is a problem with my daughter’s iPad and she cannot bring it to school?
It is the responsibility of the pupil to ensure that she has her iPad ready for use every day. If there is a technical problem with the device, the pupil can loan one from IT until the problem is fixed. Please note: this is only the case for screen breakages or warranty issues. Other iPad problems should be raised to IT and they will assist to resolve the issue.
14.Will the iPad be used for all work?
No. The iPad is another classroom tool and will be used when it is appropriate and when it will enhance teaching and learning. Exercise books and files will still be required. Some work, however, will be completed, handed in, and marked, on the device.
15.Where will work be saved?
Work will be saved via the iPad to OneDrive in the pupil’s file area. Documents can also be backed up using iCloud.
16.Will the use of iPads mean my daughter will have access to more digital learning resources?
Yes. The pupils will have access to an ever-increasing amount of interactive learning resources.
17.Can I set my own parental controls?
Yes. There are a number of controls you can implement as a parent. Details can be found here: iPadOS Parental Controls
18.How many iPads will I need to buy whilst my daughter is at LEH?
If your daughter is starting in 3rds or L4 we envisage pupils be required to have two iPads during their time at the school. This is due to a number of factors, one of which being battery life. Lithium batteries will not last 7 years of being charged every day due to constant use and the iPad battery life will begin to deteriorate. The second factor is related to the operating system and functionality. We require our pupils to have access to the newest iPadOS updates and features and this will be made more realistic by having two devices over their time at LEH. It is important to us that our pupils are able to use the full potential of the iPad. If your daughter starts in L5 or L6, pupils are likely to need only one iPad during their time at LEH.
19. What happens when my daughter leaves school?
When your daughter leaves school the iPad will be taken out of the Device Enrolment Program and the iPad can be reset. This will remove the school profile and the iPad can be used as normal device. A letter will be sent out at the time with instructions on how this can be done.