The WCIT has long supported the Vauxhall-based Lilian Baylis Technology School with education initiatives, grant funding and governorship, and the WCIT Charity’s latest grant will be critical to the school’s infrastructure.
Remarkably for a technology school, its IT facilities were over 14 years old, which meant that slow processing speeds and limited software compatibility were causing frequent technical issues. To address this, the school sought support to improve its IT infrastructure and to build a modern, fully-equipped computer suite. As well as providing better facilities for those studying qualifications in IT, it is hoped it will encourage more students to select tech courses in the future.
The school also wants the equipment to be used more widely, so it plans to give primary schools within its local Federation of Schools the chance to use the facilities and will offer classes for parents and community members.
With more than 60% of students at the school qualifying for Free School Meals and nearly 70% classed as Pupil Premium, the equipment is crucial in enabling students to overcome the socio-economic barriers they face by developing their skills and confidence to give them the competitive edge in the digital world.
Chair of the WCIT Charity, Dr Stefan Fafinski DL, commented: “It’s hard to imagine a more fitting investment than helping a technology school become truly digitally enabled. The ripple effect – on students, families, and the wider local community – will be immediate and enduring.”
