Latest News - 4th July 2025
Important Update: Student Devices and IT Changes at STFS
As we approach the summer break, we’d like to inform families of some important changes to our IT systems and student devices at Sir Thomas Fremantle School. These updates may be particularly relevant if you’re planning to purchase a new laptop for your child.
IT Upgrade and Platform Transition
This summer, we’ll be upgrading our IT infrastructure and transitioning fully to Microsoft 365, moving away from our current hybrid system that also includes Google Workspace.
This change will:
Provide a more consistent learning experience across all subjects
Improve safeguarding and device management
Better prepare students for further education and the workplace
A Move Away from Chromebooks
As part of this transition, we are also moving away from using Chromebooks.
From now on, any new student devices should be Windows laptops.
If your child is already using a Chromebook, there’s no need to replace it — these will remain supported until July 2029 or until the student leaves STFS, whichever comes first.
New: Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Option
We’re pleased to introduce a new Bring Your Own Device option for families who wish to provide their own Windows laptop, rather than purchasing through Freedom Tech.
To ensure safety and compatibility, BYOD laptops must meet the following minimum specifications:
Operating System: Windows 11 Pro
Processor: Intel N100 (or equivalent)
Memory: 8GB RAM
Storage: 128GB SSD
Connectivity: Dual Band Wireless-AC and Bluetooth
Families using BYOD must also:
Pay a one-off set-up/exit fee (no more than £20)
Complete a Device Agreement allowing us to install safeguarding and management tools
👉 [Click here to view the Device Agreement]
Please note: Filtering and monitoring tools only apply while on the school network. Families are responsible for applying parental controls at home.
Visit the updated Student Devices page on our website for more information and FAQs.
Recommended Option: Freedom Tech Scheme
While BYOD is available, we continue to strongly recommend the Freedom Tech scheme, which provides a secure and hassle-free solution for families.
Devices from Freedom Tech:
✔ Are fully set up with school software
✔ Include a 3-year warranty and accidental damage cover
✔ Come with access to loan devices during repairs
✔ Are supported by our in-house IT team
✔ Offer flexible monthly payment options
✔ Are built to withstand daily school use
Financial support may be available for students eligible for Pupil Premium or Pupil Premium Plus. Please contact the school office for a confidential conversation.
(Unfortunately, assistance is not available for the BYOD route.)
Already Ordered Through Freedom Tech?
If you've already placed an order and wish to reconsider:
Before 10th July: Contact Freedom Tech directly to amend or cancel
After the portal closes: A 14-day cooling-off period still applies (see Freedom Tech’s T&Cs)
👉 freedomtech.co.uk/contact-us
Please note: the school cannot make changes to orders on your behalf.
We understand this update comes near the end of term, and we appreciate your patience while we finalised this important development. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the school office — we’re here to help.
A Warm Welcome to out Newest Students!
This week we welcomed our future Year 7s for two exciting Transition Days at STFS. Students explored a full timetable of lessons, met their new teachers and classmates, and took part in a whole-school mystery: The Case of the Missing Robot.
Each subject offered new clues, and the investigation unfolded through activities in English, Maths, History and more. The highlight? Solving the crime - thanks to some brilliant performances by our own staff, including a memorable appearance by PC Trott!
We’re so proud of how engaged and enthusiastic they were, and we can’t wait to see them again in September!
Celebrating Our Students’ Dedication to Volunteering
We are delighted to celebrate the outstanding commitment of our students who have contributed an impressive 585 hours of volunteering as part of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award between 1st April 2024 and 31st March 2025.
Their efforts have made a meaningful impact across the local community, with a social value of £3,744. From helping run after-school clubs in local primary schools to organising community litter picks, our students have demonstrated a real sense of responsibility.
This achievement is a testament to their compassion, reliability, and drive to make a difference. We are incredibly proud of them all - well done!
Talking Teens Parenting Course – Free Sessions in July
We’re pleased to share details of a free Talking Teens parenting course, taking place over two half-day sessions on:
Thursday 10th July and Thursday 17th July
10:00am – 1:00pm
Winslow Community Library, Park Rd, Winslow, Buckingham MK18 3DN
This engaging and supportive course is designed for parents and carers of teenagers, with a focus on:
Building positive family relationships
Improving communication
Negotiating and decision-making
Strategies to reduce conflict
There are still plenty of places available, so please do spread the word within our school community. Filling this course would help ensure more sessions like this can be offered in the North in future.
To request a place, families can email: familyhubgroups@buckinghamshire.gov.uk
Uniform Donations Required
Stock levels in our Preloved Uniform Shop is a little bit low at the moment, so please think of us if you’re having a clear out and have items of uniform that your child has outgrown.
Any donations will be gratefully received at the school reception.
All proceeds go directly to the students via the Student Council.
EmpowerU: Building a Healthy Mind and Future is a life skills programme supporting young people’s mental health through self-care, resilience, inclusivity, digital safety, and healthier habits.
The EmpowerU programme takes a holistic approach to youth mental health, fostering emotional intelligence, resilience, and a sense of belonging. It provides tools for well-being and healthier life choices in a safe, supportive space.
The services and events advertised in this newsletter are not all endorsed by the school. We are simply passing on information that may be of interest to our school community. Parents and guardians are encouraged to exercise their own discretion when considering these opportunities.