Hundreds of IT devices donated to London schools by TfL

The scheme sees laptops and other hardware no longer required by Transport for London being given to schools in the capital

Transport for London (TfL) has now donated more than 800 IT devices to schools across the capital, including laptops, iPads and computers, as part of a scheme launched during the pandemic.

The “Devices for Schools” program began in 2020 to initially help schools that did not have devices to connect to students and teach them remotely, including by sharing learning materials online. Four years later, 38 London schools, including five special educational needs schools, have gained greater access to digital learning and repurposed like-new, reprogrammed laptops, iPads and desktop computers with keyboards and mice .

The equipment provides a “major boost” to schools when budgets are tight, removing the pressure to buy expensive new devices. Donating these devices to schools in need extends the life of devices that would otherwise be sent to have the parts separated for recycling or disposal.

This initiative means that TfL’s hardware and resources are used more sustainably, minimizing waste, raw material use, energy and carbon emissions.

TfL volunteers decommission older and obsolete IT devices following standard security audits and checks to see if they are in good working order. Volunteers then prepare these devices for school learning before personally delivering them to schools.

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Evren Altinok from Enfield, who came up with the idea and leads the volunteer group at TfL, said: “It’s all done in-house and the people who volunteer for it have gone beyond their daily roles to deliver more than 800 2020 laptops, computers and iPads.

“We are excited to give young Londoners access to the right tools for their digital and technology learning and add new ways for them to learn in their classrooms. We’re excited to see this initiative grow as we do our part to be more sustainable with our materials and resources, while helping teachers, parents and the wider community overcome barriers to digital inclusion.”

Active engagement and support from staff members, local businesses and grassroots communities has helped develop and expand the program, with more schools to be added over the next few months.

Rachel Turnbull, assistant headteacher at Rokesly Infant and Nursery School in Crouch End, said: “Our pupils are excited about the iPads and love using them. Technology provides more interesting and interactive learning opportunities.”

Theo Blackwell MBE, Chief Digital Officer at the Greater London Authority (GLA), added: “The Mayor is committed to improving digital access for Londoners. This includes training in basic digital skills, free SIMs and access to a refurbished laptop or mobile device if needed as part of the Mayor’s ‘Get Online London’ program with the Good Things Foundation.

“Over 65,000 Londoners have already been helped and TfL’s contribution will provide a further boost by donating end-of-life laptops to support hundreds of school children.”

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