More than a thousand teachers have received a new laptop to improve teaching in Powys schools.

Powys County Council said it has been able to hand out laptops to all teaching staff with £423,000 from a Welsh Government programme that supports digital infrastructure in schools.

Diane Reynolds, Head of Digital Services, said: “Technology has been vital more than ever over the last 12 months due to the Coronavirus pandemic and there is no doubt that it will continue to be vital over the coming years.

"It’s important that we provide staff, including teachers, with the IT equipment to carry out their duties.

“I’d like to thank those involved in delivering these laptops, including the school transport operators who helped out to ensure they were delivered safely.”

The council’s Digital Services Team oversaw the roll-out of the laptops so that they were ready to be used by teachers as soon as they were switched on. Many of the devices were delivered to schools by using existing school transport operators.

Lynette Lovell, Interim Chief Education Officer, said: “One of the guiding principles of our Strategy for Transforming Education in Powys 2020-2030 is that we have a digitally-rich schools sector that enables all learners and staff to enhance their teaching and learning experience.

“I’m delighted that we have been able to provide these laptops thanks to funding from the Welsh Government’s Hwb EdTech programme. It is important that school staff have the IT equipment then need so that they can thrive and help guide our learners within this new digital environment and help them reach their potential.”