Mobile phone provider keeps Falkirk schools connected

The moble phone provider’s schools.connected programme has seen thousands of SIMs distributed to primary and secondary schools and further education colleges in Falkirk and the rest of the country.

The initiative was created to help pupils who struggle to access remote learning because they do not have the right connectivity. Each SIM has a 30GB data allowance valid for 90 days.

The National Foundation for Educational Research suggests that 28 per cent of pupils had little or no access to digital technology in the home, rising to 43 per cent in schools in the most deprived areas during the pandemic.

Helen Lamprell, Vodafone external affairs director, said: “The aim of our schools.connected programme is to help children and young people stay connected to education and remote learning and it’s fantastic to see it has reached so many in Scotland.

“Throughout the pandemic, we’ve looked at keeping the UK connected – with a particular focus on those most in need. This is just our latest programme to support the UK during these challenging times.”

Vodafone has also relaunched its Great British Tech Appeal which calls on the UK public and businesses to donate unwanted smartphones and tablets that will be redistributed to disadvantaged children and families via charity partner Barnardo’s.

Vodafone will cover postage and repackaging and add six months free unlimited data connectivity.

Visit www.vodafone.co.uk/techappeal for more information.