Becta have released further information on schools who may want to aggregate the grants.
"Schools and academies who are interested in applying to run an aggregation scheme can request a form by call 0333 200 1005 Monday to Friday 9am-5pm. The deadline for applications is 28 February."
Within this pack is the statement that "Running a scheme requires a signifi cant amount of administration work, so running it for a very small number of pupils may not be worthwhile." Since the agreggation scheme involves additional work for your school we recommend all schools do the following:
1. Ensure parents are aware of the HAG scheme via newsletters and other school communication systems. (Home Access grant application forms are expected to become available in January.)
2. Where you feel many parents may be able to take advantage of the HAG scheme consider additional support you may be able to offer to ensure your parents take advantage of the grant (e.g. checking application forms for parents, setting up after school meetings for parents interested in the scheme but wanting to know more about new technology, eSafety events...)
All eligible parents can apply directly for the grant - schools who choose not to aggregate are not preventing their families from being successful.
If your school already encourages student use of personal IT devices like laptops as standard, or this is something you are considering, then you could consider aggregating and 'piggy-back' the administration of the Home Access Grant on to your own project. There are further pdf advice documents that are available if you are considering aggregating - please get in touch if you would like me to email them through.
Latest information can be found on: www.becta.org.uk/homeaccess (target audience: schools) or http://www.nextgenerationlearning.org.uk/homeaccess (target audience: parents).
Alex Rees
alex.rees@redbridge.gov.uk
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