Stirling Council’s roll out of free Chromebooks has been expanded to now include all Primary five pupils.

The latest development of the local authority’s ambitious digital drive means all children and young people in P5-S6 (7,233) have taken delivery of a Chromebook, while all Primary and Secondary school teachers and ELC settings (1,350) have been provided with a laptop.

Stirling Council Interim Head of Education Bryony Monaghan, said: “The temporary switch to remote learning during lockdown has underlined the importance of safe, reliable digital technology in our education settings.

“We were driving forward with digital learning before the pandemic hit as we recognised its potential to transform teaching and learning, helping our children and young people fulfil their potential.

“The rapid acceleration of the programme during the current crisis has been a huge challenge and to achieve this latest milestone is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved.”

An order has also been placed to supply P4s with the state-of-the-art technology ahead of the next expansion.

Significant infrastructure work has taken place in both primary and secondary settings to support the ongoing digital expansion, which has proved crucial in the support of learning during the recent temporary learning arrangements.

The Council’s substantial investment in this technology across its education setting is part of a long-term strategy to help Stirling’s children and young people to thrive in an increasingly digital workplace and society.

Ms Monaghan added: “As we head into the Easter break, I would like to take this opportunity to thank staff for their efforts in implementing this temporary form of learning over the past few months and also express my appreciation to families for their incredible support during this difficult time.”