The digital divide is defined as ‘the gulf between those who have ready access to computers and the internet, and those who do not’. Over the course of the pandemic, with schools being closed to the vast majority of pupils and home learning being the norm, the technological gap in the UK has rarely been starker.
Across the country individuals and organisations have stepped up to support charities & schools provide for students who need access to a computer or laptop. Robinson Jackson, estate agents with over 25 offices across London & Kent, launched an appeal for their customers to drop off unwanted laptops & PCs to their local branch.
The campaign has been a resounding success with over 56 donations, that have been cleaned & repurposed by Robinson Jacksons technology partner and donated to local schools.
Managing Partner Simon Woodcock said: “We have been blown away by how the community have rallied together. Thank you so much for donating your old computers. The schools we are supporting are incredibly grateful for the public’s help with their efforts to reach out and teach pupils remotely.
Spirotech Group have also come to the aid of Sawtry Junior Academy by donating five laptops to the school. Principal Sarah Flack said that: ‘Spirotech have very kindly donated 5 brand new laptops to the school. These have already been given to families who do not have devices to be able to access the remote and live learning from home. These are in addition to the school devices provided to year 5 and 6, the devices provided by the DFE and the devices donated by the Parish council (which will soon be delivered from Dell). This is enabling us to ensure that the Key Stage 2 children in Sawtry are being provided with a really great opportunity to continue their education during lockdown.’’
