Norfolk schoolchildren could soon all have computers

A project has been launched which could eventually lead to every school child in Norfolk having access to a personal computer at home.

It is hoped that each child will have a netbook, a small inexpensive laptop, which they can use for homework.

Norfolk County Council has teamed up with the E-Learning Foundation, a charity which provides computers to schools either on a loan basis or to own.

The computers are pre-loaded with the education software and parents are asked to make a regular, affordable, donation to the charity to support the scheme.

There will be no interest on payments and if schools lease the equipment it will be upgraded after three years.

Craig Isherwood, deputy lead teacher at Stibbard All Saints Primary School, near Fakenham, said: 'Working with the E-Learning Foundation has presented us with a viable way of continually renewing the school's technology, the ability to weave ICT throughout the curriculum and seamlessly connect learning at school and home. Most importantly we have the opportunity to give every child equal access to technology.'

Twenty Norfolk schools are already interested in taking part.

Alison Thomas, cabinet member for children's services at Norfolk County Council, said: 'It is important that all of Norfolk's children are familiar with computers and know how to use them in what is an increasingly technological world.'

For further information call 01603 303366 or email sharon.jay@norfolk.gov.uk