Leasing iPad: Solving the ICT Grant Puzzle for Irish Primary Schools

Leasing is a flexible financial model that lets your school use technology over a fixed term typically three or four years through regular, predictable payments rather than a single upfront purchase. 

At the end of the lease, schools can choose to: 

• Upgrade to the latest iPads, ensuring pupils always have access to current technology. 
• Extend the lease if devices remain fit for purpose. 
• Or return the devices, which are then responsibly refurbished or recycled by the leasing provider. 

This approach helps schools plan technology investments with confidence, ensuring learning never stalls due to funding cycles or unexpected grant delays, while remaining compliant with school purchasing procedures and financial approval processes. 

For schools seeking the simplest, most sustainable way to manage technology, ClassAct Upgrade offers a 48-month subscription model that combines Apple hardware, software, support, and training into one easy payment plan. It gives schools access to the latest technology, without large upfront costs. 

Key Features include: 

• Flexible Payment Options – Choose low monthly payments or a larger upfront contribution to suit your school’s budget cycle. 
• Early Refresh After 36 Months – Upgrade devices early, with no penalties, to keep classrooms up to date. 
• Bespoke Solution – Tailor your plan to include iPads, MacBooks, Mac Studio, education software, deployment services, technical support, and staff training. 
• Carbon-Neutral Devices – Each device’s environmental impact is offset, supporting your school’s sustainability goals. 

ClassAct Upgrade is also available as a standard 36-month agreement with single upfront payment options, providing even greater flexibility while maintaining access to the same comprehensive support and professional learning. 

1. Cost predictability and budget management 

Leasing replaces large, one-off capital expenditures with manageable monthly or quarterly payments. For schools working within uncertain ICT funding timelines, this creates financial stability and allows accurate long-term planning. 

 Leasing costs can be aligned with expected grant payments, meaning technology projects don’t need to pause while waiting for the next funding round, subject to the school’s approved financial and procurement policies. 

2. Access to the latest technology 

With technology evolving rapidly, it can be hard for schools to keep up. Leasing ensures your devices stay current and compliant with new software and curriculum requirements. When the lease term ends, your school can upgrade to the latest iPad models without carrying the burden of outdated devices. 

3. Reduced upfront investment and financial risk 

Instead of tying up valuable resources in technology purchases, schools can preserve their budgets for other priorities, from professional learning to infrastructure. Leasing also reduces financial risk by providing warranty and support options throughout the term, helping to control unforeseen repair or replacement costs. 

The leasing process is simple and transparent: 

• Consultation – Discuss your school’s digital goals and budget with one of our leasing specialists. 
• Quotation – Receive a tailored plan outlining payment options and timelines. 
• Approval & Delivery – Once approved in line with school financial procedures, your iPads are delivered and configured for classroom use. 
• Support & Renewal – Access ongoing service, support, and end-of-term upgrade options. 

Select provides support such as financial planning consultations to help schools build sustainable, multi-year ICT strategies with confidence, all in compliance with Department of Education and school purchasing policies. 

For Irish primary schools navigating the uncertainty of ICT grant funding, leasing offers a practical, transparent, and financially responsible way to bring Apple technology into the classroom. It enables predictable budgeting, ongoing access to current devices, and complete flexibility at the end of term, all while supporting sustainability through refurbishment and reuse.