Jacqui
Smith MP urges pupils to get on at school by getting online at
home
Jacqui Smith MP met with Schools
Secretary Ed Balls this week to discuss how families and children
in Redditch could get free laptops and broadband
access.
The programme
called Home Access has been launched by the Prime Minister Gordon
Brown and Schools Secretary Ed Balls and will mean thousands of
children and their parents will be able to get internet access at
home to boost their school work.
Jacqui Smith MP
is urging local parents to check whether they qualify under the
‘Home Access programme’. Families with a child in years 3 to 9 at
school and eligible for free school meals can apply for the special
laptop and broadband access by calling 0333 200 1004 or
visiting
www.homeaccess.org.uk
After the
meeting, Jacqui said:
“Computers are
no longer a luxury for the few, but these days are just as
essential a part of education as books, pens and paper.
“That’s why I
welcome this new scheme to make sure children without the internet
at home aren’t left behind.
“Hundreds of
families across Redditch could be eligible. It will give children
the opportunity to do coursework and research on the internet -
helping children succeed in school and get the skills they need to
get good jobs in the future.
“It will also help parents
get more involved in their child’s education, develop new skills
and apply for jobs online.”
Jacqui talks with School Secretary Ed
Balls
To
contact Jacqui about this article - please email her at smithjj@parliament.co.uk
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