Free computers for 8,500 pupils!

KEEN to learn . . . from left, head girl Yasmin Jolly, head boy Reece Gibson and deputy head boy Kamraan Akhtar

OLDHAM will be one of the first places in the country to pioneer free computers and internet access for pupils in a bid to bridge the digital divide.

Around 8,500 seven to 18-year-olds from low income families receiving free school meals will qualify for a grant under the Home Access scheme.

This will cover the cost of an approved package which will include a computer or laptop, basic software, broadband access for a year and three years technical support.

Parents wanting a higher-specification can top up the grant to cover the cost.

Packages from approved IT suppliers will also be offered to the remainder of Oldham’s 42,000 children.

Oldham will look at ways of helping them to afford this, as well as making sure the scheme is sustainable, such as promoting Credit Unions.

Two pilot schemes will start in Oldham and Suffolk in February as part of a £300 million Government programme to ensure every child has internet access by 2011. They will be introduced nationally next autumn.

One in five Oldham children do not have internet access at home and Janet Donaldson, cabinet member for children, young people and families, said the scheme would stretch the boundaries of learning.

It could also bring wider benefits for families, such as allowing them to access more council services on line.

Mrs Donaldson said: “We will squeeze out every possible ounce of benefit for children and families from this.”

The pilot was unveiled at the new Radclyffe School, Chadderton, which has 800 computers —one for every two pupils — on site.

Head teacher Hardial Hayer welcomed the new scheme. He said: “It will bring the school into the home and the home into the school and will finally end this digital divide, the haves and have nots.”

For information contact the council on 0161-770 3000 or visit www.oldham.gov.uk/homeaccess