The Department for Education (DfE) is providing laptops and tablets to schools to help children in need to access remote education during coronavirus (COVID-19).
Devices are only available for disadvantaged children in certain year groups:
- Disadvantaged children in years 3 to 11 who do not have access to a device and whose face-to-face education is disrupted
- Disadvantaged children in any year group who have been advised to shield because they (or someone they live with) are clinically extremely vulnerable
- Disadvantaged children in any year group attending a hospital school
Disadvantaged children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are included within this offer. However, if specialist support and equipment is required help may be available through the Family Fund.
How will device allocations be decided?
Blackburn Central High School will receive an allocation of devices to be used to support disadvantaged children who are otherwise unable to access remote education.
Examples of this include disadvantaged children:
- With no digital devices in their household
- Whose only available device is a smartphone
- With a single device in their household that’s being shared with more than one other family member
The number of devices available is based on:
- Number of children in years 7 to 11
- Free school meals data
- An estimate of the number of devices school already has
The exact number and type of devices available will be confirmed at the time of ordering based on stock availability and the extent of coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions. If there are widespread school closures, allocations could be temporarily reduced.
School will be notified by the DFE inviting them to place an order if more laptops are allocated.
How does my child get a laptop or tablet?
If your child meets the above criteria they may be eligible to borrow a laptop or tablet from school, so please add their details to form below so they can be added to our waiting list. Please note that devices will be distributed to those most in need first.