New special needs tech 'on the way'

Software to support children with educational special needs could soon be available for families to access at home, those with jobs in education may be interested to hear.

Technology advisor Becta has been awarded a contract by the government to deliver assistive technology to UK households.

Home Access is a government programme which aims provide children from deprived backgrounds with access to online learning support material.

Launched in September last year, the programme aims to target those families that do not currently have internet connections by offering grants.

Pilots of the programme began in February and it is expected to go national later this year.

Alan York, head of accreditation at Becta, said that he hoped the software could reach those not eligible for grants.

"This software suite will also be available to those not currently covered under the Home Access grant scheme, providing access to the same packages at a significantly reduced price," he said.

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