ST HELENS Council is expecting a delivery of 10 laptops which will be lent to disadvantaged children so they can access online learning from home.

The scheme is part of a push from the government to make remote education accessible for pupils staying at home during the coronavirus outbreak.

Devices will be ordered for children in the most vital stages of their education, those who receive support from a social worker and care leavers, the government said.

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Where families do not already have mobile or broadband internet in the household, the government will also provide 4G routers.

The laptops and 4G routers will be distributed by local authorities through education providers – predominantly schools and academy trusts.

Once they have reopened, schools and colleges will be able to keep the devices.

A spokesman for St Helens Council said: “The council’s virtual school – which ensures looked after children have the opportunity to fulfil their educational potential –  has purchased 10 laptops for children and young people in our care.

“We are due to receive delivery of the devices by the end of this week which will allow these pupils to access home learning during this difficult time.

“Pupil premium grants have also been released directly to schools to allow the purchase of additional equipment, if required.”

The move to provide free laptops comes as the government launched a new online learning portal on Monday, April 20.

The Oak National Academy has been created by 40 teachers from some of the leading schools across England, and is funded by the Department for Education.

It will provide 180 video lessons each week, across a broad range of subjects from maths to art to languages, for every year group from Reception through to Year 10.

St Helens Star:

“Schools will remain closed until the scientific advice changes, which is why we need to support the incredible work teachers are already doing to ensure children continue to receive the education they deserve and need,” said Education Secretary Gavin Williamson.

“By providing young people with these laptops and tablets and enabling schools to access high quality support, we will enable all children to continue learning now and in the years to come.

“We hope this support will take some of the pressure off both parents and schools by providing more materials for them to use.

To find out what other resources are available from the government, click here.

If you are unsure whether or not you qualify for a device or 4G router, you should contact your school.