Building schools for the future - Information and communications technology (ICT)

There is already more Information and Communications Technology (ICT) equipment present in schools than ever been before, and it is starting to transform learning and teaching. Students being taught with ICT in new and exciting ways are also learning about ICT and acquiring new skills to enable them to participate in the e-economy. Technology is seen by BSF as a necessity for all children to reach their full potential.

Central to Sandwell's plans for BSF is the significant investment in more ICT to support teaching and learning. ICT, combined with further investment in staff development, seeks to raise standards and address teacher workloads.

By making ICT integral to everything that happens in the schools of the future it can:

• support the school workforce
• streamline knowledge management within schools and between schools
• improve interaction with parents and the local community
• extend teaching and learning opportunities, such as allowing learning to take place 'anytime-anywhere' but particularly beyond traditional school hours and premises
• personalise learning for individual students
• provide equipment for specialist subjects

ICT in BSF schools

Sandwell Council is not responsible for the content of external websites.

A short film, in which pupils, teachers, heads and technicians from BSF schools all over the country share their views and experiences of their ICT Managed Service.

• ICT in BSF Schools Video

Technology watch

Sandwell Council is not responsible for the content of external websites.

It is anticipated that all Sandwell students will be provided with a personal ICT device such as a laptop computer. Already growing cheaper, as the BSF programme goes on, the competitive market for ICT hardware and software will develop and drive prices further downwards.

• Cheap laptops are already available