A Gateshead school has ploughed £1.7m into IT to create
a state-of-the-art learning system for its pupils.
The newly opened
Cardinal Hume Catholic
School appointed Knowledge IT to design and deploy the wireless
and broadband network. The contract also includes the supply of
over 1,000 desktops and laptops, to ensure all 980 pupils have
computer access.
The £24m purpose-built school has been awarded "Specialist
College" status for mathematics and computing, and is the only
school in the region that has benefited from a direct pathfinder
grant from the government for its building and IT programme.
In conjunction with Cardinal Hume's grant, the government's
"Building Schools for the Future" programme will see many other
schools, including over 15 Catholic secondary schools, equipped
with the most advanced IT systems and equipment to meet the future
teaching and learning requirements of pupils and staff.
Wi-fi access has been installed throughout the 10 acre site by
Knowledge IT, together with hardwired computer facilities,
integrated Powerpoint projector systems, satellite TV and broadband
access in the classrooms.
Dedicated areas within the school have also been equipped with
the latest ICT hardware and software, video production and music
equipment to improve access to all levels of study from key stage
III up to A-level study.
Cardinal Hume School head teacher Nick Hurn said, "Technology
lies at the heart of the school, with every department relying
heavily upon intuitive and stable IT systems.
"The new IT network and equipment is superb and helps to provide
students with the best possible learning environment throughout
their time with us."
Cardinal Hume School
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