An initiative to tackle digital poverty across Bedfordshire, organised by the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire, Susan Lousada, has seen the Rotary Club of Bedford Park donate 12 digital devices to Ridgeway School, Kempston.
With more resources and work being carried out online and using devices, the eight iPads and four laptops will allow children at Ridgeway School to access additional material.
Andrew Munday Headteacher at Ridgeway School said: “Ridgeway School is most grateful to the Rotary Club of Bedford Park for the donation of these digital devices for use by our most vulnerable pupils. Many of our children find it hard to access online learning and the availability of the devices can only help their educational progress during these most difficult of times.”
Cllr James Valentine, Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services and Education said: “We are so grateful to Rotary Club of Bedford Park, Bedfordshire Learning Link, and Susan Lousada the High Sheriff for their generous gift. We place the highest priority on our children with special needs and these laptops are finding a good home. And special thanks to our Virtual School who have been responsible for ascertaining the demand of these devices at Ridgeway and to schools across the Borough.”
Susan Lousada, High Sheriff of Bedfordshire said: “Bedfordshire Learning Link wish to give all children in Bedfordshire access to digital devices to help them fulfil their academic potential and gain skills for the workplace. We are currently focusing on secondary schools, high schools and special schools but hope to expand further as more funds become available.”
The wider initiative has seen schools across Luton receive over 300 laptops and tablets to help pupils with their studies, both in and out of the classroom, with funding coming from a range of sources. This is in addition to other government schemes to provide technology to certain children. So far those supporting this initiative include:
- Rotary Club of Bedford Park
- Bedford and Luton Community Foundation
- Bedfordshire Crimebeat
- FACES
- Personal donations from several generous residents of Bedfordshire
