A NEW scheme to provide teachers in Essex with discounted top of the range laptop computers was lauched by the Essex County Council last Wednesday (September 19).

Sony was selected to provide the equipment after stringent tests which included top quality software and training and a major saving on normal retail prices of machines for the teachers.

Director of Learning Services, Paul Lincoln, at the launch of the scheme at Essex Records Office in Chelmsford, said: "Our teachers deserve the best technology that we can secure for them and this initiative will provide even greater support for teaching and learning in schools across the county."

In addition, the available equipment has been upgraded to fulfil requirements for high technical standard along with possesing video editing, internet and network connection facilities to help teachers striving to integrate the latest technology into all areas of their teaching.

Mrs Iris Pummell, Cabinet Member for Children's Services and Schools, remarked: "It is always exciting to see our county leading the field in new developments in education. This is indeed a very timely boost in a period of serious teacher shortages."

Ordering information and further details are available on the Essex Grid for Learning website, www.e-gfl.org.