Around 20 pupils have received a brand new laptop, coupled with safe and secure internet access, which will open up the world of digital learning in their homes.

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Education Leeds has been awarded a £1.8m government grant to distribute around 2500 laptops to 11 to 16-year-olds in Leeds whose families wouldn't normally have access to a computer.

The computers will give these young people the opportunity to benefit from all the advantages technology brings to learners, such as access to the secure education platform Leeds Learning Network and a host of education support such as mentoring services.

400 of the city's looked after children have already received their computers – and special training from Education Leeds' partners Stone Computers on how to get the most out of the machines.

13 year old Corey Greening, in Year 9 at Priesthorpe, instantly bonded with his machine – even naming it 'Boris':

"It's impressive, and it is brand new. I've grown very attached to it already!

"It has lots of programmes and applications on it which will be really useful. It is great to get a laptop because I'll be able to take it round with me."

Councillor Stewart Golton, executive board member for Children's Services, said:

"This scheme gives these young people a vital resource which could make a real difference and help them achieve their potential.

"It is a valuable part of our programme to narrow the gap in achievement across the city and secure a brighter future for all our children and families."

Chris Edwards, chief executive of Education Leeds, said:
"This technology will give these young people access to many new and exciting ways to learn.

"Technology is an incredibly powerful tool which is playing an important role in raising standards. It can be applied across every aspect of the curriculum, providing greater opportunities for learning and developing new skills."

The project is part of the government sponsored 'Computer for Pupils' initiative, which aims to help secondary school children and families from disadvantaged areas to improve their education and life skills by putting a computer into the home.

Over the next 18 months computers and access to the internet will be rolled out to secondary school pupils in eligible households, including children in care aged between 10 and 16. The council is also improving internet access for all children's homes across the city.