Schools to get tech support for Google and Microsoft platforms

Technical support to access Google and Microsoft’s education platforms, along with free training on how to use the resources most effectively, will be available for schools immediately. 

This will include online resources, support getting set up, webinars and peer to peer support between schools.

This follows the Government’s pledge to provide laptops and tablets for vulnerable and disadvantaged young people across England.

The Government has committed over £100 million to boost remote education, including by providing devices and internet access for those who need it most, ensuring every school that wants it has access to free, expert technical support to get set up on Google for Education or Microsoft’s Office 365 Education, and offering peer support from schools and colleges leading the way with the use of education technology.

The Government has written to local authorities, trusts and other relevant organisations overseeing schools and children’s social care outlining the process for ordering the devices. The Government has already placed a bulk order and organisations will be able to register to receive their allocation from today, while institutions that administer the 16 to 19 Bursary Fund will be able to apply for a top-up.