Devices4Schools contributes laptops to local school
This scheme enables Oxford University members to donate their old laptops, tablets and phones to benefit local school students
Oxford University’s laptop donation scheme, Devices4Schools, handed over two more laptops to Fitzharrys school this week. The scheme enables University members to donate their old laptops, tablets and phones safely to benefit local school students.
The Head of Fitzharrys described the challenge facing schools regarding digital inclusion:
We are very grateful for this kind donation to Fitzharrys School. The pandemic and lockdowns have highlighted the digital divide in all schools, and we know that these extra devices will make a difference to key students. It will allow them access to digital platforms, research key information, access catch up materials, take part in online tutoring, and ensure they can study effectively at home. Digital inclusion is crucial for our students to achieve their potential, and we are proud to be working with Oxfordshire Community Foundation to improve access for all.
Fitzharrys has worked with Devices4Schools on the pilot scheme which was launched in February and has received a stream of laptops and tablets. The latest two Lenovo laptops were donated by All Souls College. Rima Dapous, Domestic Bursar, commented:
All Souls College is delighted to support the University’s Devices4Schools scheme to help provide Oxfordshire school children from all backgrounds with appropriate IT equipment to support their education. To this end, the College has donated two laptops for the pupils at the Fitzharrys School in Abingdon.
Devices4Schools is preparing to ramp up significantly when it is extended to enable colleges and University departments to donate redundant technical equipment in batch. More announcements will follow in the near future. Additional information and background about the scheme can be found in our article, Devices4Schools.
In the meantime, if you have a personally-owned device you would like to donate, full details are on the How to prepare IT equipment for donation or get in touch via the email address device@it.ox.ac.uk.
