Brendan Clarke-Smith MP asked for clarity on the Government's plans for students' additional IT equipment in the 'virtual' House of Commons today:
Mr Brendan Clarke-Smith, MP for Bassetlaw:
I very much welcome the funding for IT equipment, because there is nothing worse than when computer says no. Can my right hon. Friend confirm that the laptops and tablets provided to disadvantaged and vulnerable young people will not just benefit them while schools are closed, but will continue to be used by their schools to aid learning in the future?
Mr Gavin Williamson, Education Secretary:
My hon. Friend is right in his analysis. It is not just about helping children during this crisis; it is about helping and supporting children for many months and years to come, ensuring that schools continue to have that resource and helping many children through that resource over a long period. We recognise that a lot of work needs to be done to support children as they catch up on what they have missed, because there is no substitute for a child being in a classroom, learning directly from a teacher.
To watch the exchange on Mr Clarke-Smith's Facebook page, click here
