Free laptop plan unveiled

A new scheme to provide families on a low income with free laptops has been confirmed by the government.

Schools secretary Ed Balls and prime minister Gordon Brown confirmed the scheme.

"Families who are most in need cannot be left behind in the digital revolution we're seeing in education. We're leading the world with the way we use technology in learning and we've shown our commitment to this by making ICT the backbone of every lesson in the new primary curriculum," said Mr Balls.

He added that it is therefore right that some £300 million is invested to give children who need the most support access to laptops and the internet while at home.

Mr Balls noted that having access to the internet at home offers a number of educational, social and economic benefits.

The scheme was first announced by the prime minister in 2008. Speaking today, Mr Brown said that he believes it is right that action is taken to break down barriers to social mobility in the country and noted that the new scheme will allow children and families to learn together from their time online.

Teachers' union ATL has welcomed the scheme, noting that education is a "key route" out of poverty.

Written by Theo Foulds

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