One million laptops and tablets for disadvantaged children

Over one million devices will now reach schools, colleges and councils, helping ensure students have access to high-quality remote education if they need it.

Nearly 70,000 pupils are also now confirmed to have enrolled in the National Tutoring Programme, as the government continues to step up work to support young people. Ministers say that over 560,000 devices were delivered to schools and councils in 2020.

The further purchase of more than 440,000 devices means that over one million will now be provided to help schools and colleges throughout the pandemic – making the programme one of the largest of its kind in the world.

From January, schools will start being invited to order devices even if they have not had to send pupils home to self-isolate. The programme will also be extended to include 16 to 19-year-olds in schools and further education, many of whom will be preparing for exams.

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “We know how important it is for children to be in school, but it’s also vital that where public health advice means they can’t be, we have all-encompassing measures in place to prevent them falling behind.

“That’s why scaling up our devices scheme, alongside our tutoring offer to reach as many children and young people as possible, is so important. Providing one million devices is a hugely significant achievement, not only in the context of supporting children through the pandemic, but an investment in tech for our schools, colleges and children for years to come.”