Bring your own device policy (BYOD)

Bring your own device policy (BYOD)

Newcastle City Learning recognises the need for learners to use their own electronic devices such as laptops, tablets, smart phones and similar equipment to enhance and support teaching and learning.

This policy is about reducing the risk in using BYOD. Such risks may come from your BYOD being lost, stolen, used or exploited in such a way to take advantage of you. We believe that following the procedures set out below will bring benefits to learners through protection of your own data and equipment.

Security and Protection

If you are using your own device for your course, it is important to ensure that it and the information it contains is appropriately protected.


•    Set and use a passcode (e.g. pin number or password) to access your device. Whenever possible, use a strong passcode. Do not share the passcode with anyone.


•    Set your device to lock automatically when the device is inactive for more than a few minutes.


•    Take appropriate physical security measures. Do not leave your device unattended.


•    Laptops, computers and more sophisticated tablet devices - use anti-virus software and keep it up to date.


•    Configure your device to enable you to remotely wipe it should it become lost. 


•    If your device is second hand, restore to factory settings before using it for the first time.


•    Only download applications or other software from reputable sources.


•    Make arrangements to back up your documents.


•    Configure your device to maximise its security. For example, each new technology brings new enhanced security features. Take time to study and discover how to use these and decide which of them are relevant to you. 

Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Devices

Newcastle City learning takes no responsibility for stolen, lost, or damaged devices, including lost or corrupted data on those devices. 

Usage Charges

Newcastle City learning is not responsible for any possible device charges to your account that might be incurred during course related use.

Acceptable Usage

It is important that the use of personal devices does not put others at risk or interfere with their learning, therefore we ask you to follow the guidelines below:


•    Please remain aware of the people around you, group dynamics and interaction


•    Refrain from checking emails, Facebook, Twitter, etc...


•    Turn off all sounds on your device


•    Do not use your device for any activity unrelated to the course you are attending


•    Printing from personal devices will not be possible at college


•    Personal devices must be charged prior to attending your course and run on battery power while at college. Charging of devices at college is not permitted unless a staff member has agreed to this


•    Please do not use devices to record, transmit, or post images or videos of a person or persons during course activities, unless you have received their permission


•    Devices with cameras or recording functions are not allowed to be used in potentially sensitive areas such as toilets


•    The Bluetooth function on a mobile device must be switched off at all times and not be used to send images or files to other mobile devices


•    Using mobile devices to intimidate and threaten other learners is unacceptable. Cyber bullying, Sexting or Up Skirting will not be tolerated. 


•    Students must ensure that files stored on their phones do not contain violent, degrading, racist or pornographic images. The viewing or transmission of such images may constitute a criminal offence


•    On some of our courses, tutors may ask learners to put electronic devices away