For once, the government has done something that I'm actually really excited about! According to The Metro, a new bill was passed yesterday that will give disadvantaged free home computers and internet broadband access. There will be 20,000 children initially chosen to participate in the program's trial period, and the grant will pay for the internet access for a year, a computer, software, and IT support for three years.
Families that make less than £15,000 a year or are on benefits will be eligible. The government says that the goal of the program is that by 2011 to have every five to 19-year-old in Britain to have internet access. School minister Jim Knight explains:
"There has to be a culture where families see home access is as important as ensuring their children have pen, paper, calculator. It is no longer an optional extra for school work, it is essential."
Amen to that Jim! Here's hoping the trial goes smoothly and that every child in England is online by 2011.
Our only concern is that as well as giving them internet access, they teach the children about safe and respectful practices online.
Image via InMagine