STACK #255 January 2026

FEATURE TECH

assignments, photos, videos ,and apps grow quickly over the years. Battery life also matters more than many parents realise. Schools often prohibit charging in the classroom, so a laptop that lasts the full school day is essential. Portability and durability round out the key considerations. Students carry their laptops between classes daily, so a lightweight, strong build with sturdy hinges is the way to go.

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that can’t manage heat efficiently tend to slow down over time, even if their specs look good on paper. Planning ahead also means encouraging good digital habits such as backing up assignments, using cloud storage, and staying current with operating system features and security updates. Ready to go shopping? Once you’ve checked your school’s BYOD guidelines and have a sense of the specs the laptop needs, the rest is simply finding a model that feels right for day-to-day school use. A good approach is to shortlist a couple of models that meet the guidelines, then compare the things that matter most in the classroom – battery life, build quality, portability, and ease of use. If you’re shopping in-store, let your child try the keyboard, trackpad and screen, where possible. It’s a quick way to see which device they’re most comfortable with, and helps them feel confident about using it all year.

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Primary vs Secondary school needs Primary students typically use simple, web based tools – think writing apps, learning platforms and short videos – so they don’t need top-tier hardware. A durable laptop that boots quickly and handles everyday tasks smoothly is ideal. Secondary school brings heavier workloads and a wider range of digital tasks. Students often have multiple browser tabs open, alternate between research and video content, collaborate on group work, and occasionally use subject-specific apps. This is where a more capable processor, extra storage space, and a little more power can really help. Choosing a laptop that matches your child’s expected workload helps ensure it remains reliable throughout the year, rather than struggling after a few terms. How to future-proof your investment Ideally, a school laptop should last long enough to support your child as their learning needs grow. Future proofing doesn’t necessarily mean buying an expensive device; it just means choosing the right combination of specs and build quality. Effective thermal design can keep the device cool and performing consistently, as laptops

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With the right laptop, your child can hit the ground running, stay organised, and focus on learning – not tech frustrations. And if you need help comparing models or understanding specs, JB staff can walk you through the options and make sure you leave with a device that fits your child’s needs and your budget.

TOP TIPS

Set a budget and stick to it A well-chosen mid-range laptop can last years without breaking the bank. Always factor in the cost of protective cases, chargers, and any necessary software when planning. Keep safety in mind Strong security software can protect the device from online risks, and parental control tools can create a safer, more supervised online experience for younger children.

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