1,500 laptops and tablets handed out to children in Blackpool to help with home learning

Blackpool has received 1,551 laptops and tablets to support children's home learning following Department for Education's announcement last month that a further 300,000 devices would be handed out nationwide.

In total, more than 1 million laptops and tablets have now been delivered to schools and local authorities across England since the Covid-19 pandemic began, with efforts being made to prioritise areas with high poverty rates.

Education secretary Gavin Williamson said: “I know what a challenging period this has been for pupils, teachers and parents - but it has been nothing short of inspiring to see schools and staff going above and beyond, as they always have done, to give our pupils the very best education possible.”

“Online access has been an important part of this work and will continue to be as we help young people catch-up after the disruption caused by the pandemic, which is why the delivery of these one million laptops is so vital. They represent one million children who will not let their education be overcome by this virus.”

“I want parents to know that we’ll continue to do everything we can to protect our children’s education at this unprecedented time and ensure they have the tools they need to get on with and make the most of their lives”.

Blackpool South MP Scott Benton MP said: “No child should miss out as a result of the disruption caused by this pandemic. That is why it has been our priority to equip those children most in need with the resources they need to succeed.

“I very much welcome that young people across Blackpool are continuing to benefit from the raft of measures the Government has put in place to help schools deliver high-quality learning, and the 1,551 devices we now have received will ensure no child’s education is hindered, regardless of their background or circumstance.

“While we hope that all our children will be back learning in the classroom as soon as possible, we will do everything in our power to give them the world-class education they deserve as they learn at home.”