Earnest Cook Remote Learning Grant Provides Technology to Swindon Academy Families

As Swindon Academy opens its classrooms again this week, it has received some joyful messages from parents, delighted that their children are being welcomed back, but also thanking the school for managing online communications and student studies so well during Lockdown. The Academy reacted quickly to the challenges faced by many of the households in this area of Swindon, and in particular found ways to address the issue that so many did not have suitable computing capacity for home learning.

Students in need were given new devices by the Academy, purchased with £3,000 from the Earnest Cook Remote Learning Grant.  The Earnest Cook Trust is an educational charity which specialises in outdoor activities for disadvantaged children, to give them an appreciation and love of nature. But in January, as the third Lockdown started and schools were unable to open, the Earnest Cook Trust diverted £500,000 to fill the gaps in remote learning access for children across the UK, and Swindon Academy was a very grateful recipient.

The Academy has had a successful take up of the technology provided by the Grant and is impressed with the engagement of students throughout this difficult time. As the doors have opened again, staff have been pleased to receive many expressions of gratitude from parents as they bring their children back into school.

Jemima, Mum of Rebecca says:

“Dear All, thank you for your support and clear communication over these uncertain times.

Your consistency and support have allowed my daughter to continue her learning, knowing what was expected and what was happening. The laptop loan has really reduced her anxiety and allowed her confidently and independently (without home support) complete and submit work. Thank you for allowing her access to this for the rest of the academic year. #jawdropping #eyeswideopen.

I hope you all have a lovely weekend as she looks forward to being back on site come Monday. Many thanks and best wishes to the entire SA Team.”

The Ernest Cook Trust was founded in 1952 by the late E E Cook as an Educational Charity to create experiences of the outdoors and natural environment for children of disadvantaged backgrounds. Find out more here: https://ernestcooktrust.org.uk/