Introduction
At Salisbury 6th Form College (S6C), we believe technology should empower learning anytime, anywhere. To create a dynamic and innovative educational experience, we operate a mandatory ‘Bring Your Own Device’ (BYOD) policy, expecting all students to bring a suitable device to every college day. Mobile phones are not allowed in classrooms and they do not fulfill this requirement; students need a light, portable device with a physical keyboard, at least six hours of battery life, and fast startup capabilities—making Google Chromebooks an ideal choice.
Students do not need to purchase Microsoft Office or extra antivirus software, as free access to Google Workspace is provided. However, because students are fully responsible for their devices and maintaining access to their coursework, we strongly recommend ensuring your device is covered under your home insurance or a dedicated policy to prevent any disruption to your studies.
WE DO NOT RECOMMEND an Apple laptop or iPad as these are not fully compatible with the college software.
Google Chromebook
(Recommended for all subjects except those listed under specialist – see below)
Google Chromebooks are the ideal device for college, starting instantly and including everything needed to write assignments and access Google Classroom. With prices starting from £150, all models offer the same core functionality, with higher-priced options simply providing upgraded screens or premium hardware. Built-in, automatic virus protection and “sandboxing” technology keep Chromebooks running fast while isolating web threats to keep student work secure.
Specialist Subjects
UPDATED Sep ’26
Please be aware that some specialist subjects may have different requirements for BYOD devices, such as Software Design and Development, Photography and Media.
Students should check with their subject teachers if any specialist equipment or software is needed above these requirements.
Media
While Media students have access to high-spec college computers, those preferring to use their own laptops should upgrade from a standard Chromebook to a modern Windows system. For software, students can use an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription or industry-standard free open-source alternatives like DaVinci Resolve, Blender, and GIMP.
Coursework requires a personal SD card and a large-capacity USB-C external hard drive for file storage. While a personal DSLR camera is recommended, students can complete the course using a high-spec smartphone paired with a gimbal, with further advice on camera equipment available upon request.
WE DO NOT RECOMMEND an Apple laptop or iPad as these are not fully compatible with the college software.
Contact lhughes@s6c.mlp.college for further advice.
Photography
Photography students have access to high-spec Workstations in the classroom, but having a capable personal device allows work to be completed both in and outside of lessons. To support these programs, students will benefit from upgrading their BYOD device from a standard Chromebook to a modern Windows laptop.
For photo editing software, students can choose between Adobe Creative Cloud, Affinity Photo, or free, industry-standard open-source alternatives like Darktable (a Lightroom replacement) and GIMP (a Photoshop replacement).
WE DO NOT RECOMMEND an Apple laptop or iPad as these are not fully compatible with the college software.
Contact lhughes@s6c.mlp.college for further advice.
Software Design and Development
Software Design and Development students require a dedicated, portable Windows 11 laptop that can be completely wiped and natively converted to Linux during class. Because the hard drive will be reformatted, this device must not be shared, used for family storage, or used for gaming (which requires a separate personal device). Apple devices are not suitable for this course due to unsupported environment setups, and no support will be provided for them.
The laptop must offer at least six hours of battery life to accommodate limited classroom outlets. Minimum recommended specifications include an Intel Core i5 (or AMD equivalent), 16GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD, though an i7 processor, 32GB RAM, and a 1TB SSD are preferred. For optimal performance, the Lenovo ThinkPad is recommended and can be purchased second hand from Ebay or similar sites.
Device Bursary
S6C offers a bursary scheme to assist with the full cost of these devices. Further information can be obtained from our bursary page.
My Son / Daughter already has a suitable device
S6C is very happy for students to bring their current device to college as long as it meets the BYOD requirements and you are not obliged to purchase a new device just for college (although you may be told this). Please note the specialist requirements above of some courses which must be met and Apple devices are not recommended due to incompatibilities with college software.
Please remember a college day lasts at least six hours and the device your son/daughter brings in should be capable of lasting this long on a single charge as we don’t have facilities for everybody to plug in devices during lessons.
Student Discount
Most manufacturers will give a student discount when purchasing devices or give away headphones etc. Always ask for a student discount when purchasing any electronic equipment.
Further Information
If you require any further information or would like to talk to someone about BYOD, then please feel free to contact the college on 01722 597970.
