Developers help Corby school with laptops for home learning

A Corby school has 42 more much-needed laptops for home learning thanks to donations from developers at the Priors Hall site.

'Master developer' Urban and Civic donated funds and secured support from house builders Lodge Park, Jelson Homes and Francis Jackson to give the laptops to Corby Business Academy for their pupils in the community.

The school has already distributed 122 devices to those who need them most, helping students continue their studies in lockdown.

The donation will also support the academy’s ability to provide an extensive curriculum post-lockdown, with increased opportunities for IT-based access in the building to aid with coursework completion and lesson delivery.

Corby Business Academy associate principal, Simon Underwood, said: “These laptops will support the academy to deliver a curriculum that suits the pathways of our students, with increased opportunities for IT based access for coursework, assignments and lesson delivery.

“The Government scheme for laptops has been effective for those identified as having low incomes or eligibility for free school meals.

"However, there are so many other families that challenges that do not fit the specified criteria. We are all immensely appreciative. Thank you to all those who have helped our families in these difficult times.”

Nigel Wakefield, development director for Urban and Civic at Priors Hall Park, said: “Our role of master developer goes far beyond delivering bricks and mortar – we are equally committed to investing in the community and quality of life at Priors Hall Park. Our aim is to work with our key partners and local organisations to help build a bright future for our residents. Naturally, that means that we want to see the academy and its pupils succeed, so it’s important that we do our bit to help students during these difficult times.”

Mr Wakefield, who is also deputy chair of governors at the academy, added: “The contributions towards laptops has been a significant addition to the academy’s ability to deliver high quality remote teaching and learning and will continue to be of value when face-to-face teaching resumes.

"To be able to support our community at a wider level is incredibly rewarding, and we hope the donation will make a real difference to the everyday lives of those pupils.”