Gov't gives free laptops to Norfolk children

31 Dec 2008 08:11

Norfolk County Council has been given £310,000 to supply 400 children with laptops, under the Home Access ICT scheme

The Department for Children, Schools and Families has given Norfolk County Council £310,000 to purchase laptops for more than 400 children.

The money from the government's Home Access ICT scheme will be used to target groups of young people who live in deprived areas; are persistent absentees; are traveller children; are in alternative education; or have English as a second language.

The council said it would be working with secondary schools to identify the children who could most benefit from improved access to ICT. The children chosen will be able to access the web securely through their school's computer network.

Rosalie Monbiot, council cabinet member for children's services, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity to raise attainment among targeted groups of young people and to help promote the importance and value of learning. Supporting those who have had long periods of absence from school will help them to re-engage in education and provide them with opportunities to catch up with the work they have missed."

She added: "I know the laptop project for looked-after children is already proving a success, and I am thrilled that we are able to roll it out in this way."

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