Northgate and Dell join forces to address the digital divide
12 June 2007
Northgate and Dell will provide students at St Cecilia’s College, Derry and Holy Cross College, Strabane with affordable wireless-enabled Dell notebook computers as part of the innovative Wireless Notebook Scheme which both Colleges have embraced and which supports the schools’ efforts to integrate technology into the educational curriculum. Students also have the option to purchase a specially discounted laser printer.
Today’s announcement marks the rollout of notebooks to the schools and gives first year students the opportunity to use a notebook from point of entry into the school through to graduation. Students will be able to access the school’s wireless network virtually anywhere on campus.
Kathleen Gormley, Principal, St Cecilia’s, said ‘ In supporting a scheme like this for our students we are preparing them in a real way for both the world of education and work. Accessible wireless technology is the future and as a school we should embrace this now and maximise its potential as a learning tool as well as a necessary skill for life.”
Sean Bradley, Principal at Holy Cross said, “I am delighted that the partnership between Holy Cross College, St Cecilia’s, Northgate and Dell has developed to the point where our pupils next year will be able to benefit directly from such high quality technology. The successful completion of this scheme highlights the necessity for schools of the future to embrace new ideas much more quickly than at present. The new Wireless Notebook Scheme will mean that our Sixth Formers will be among the most advanced in Northern Ireland with regard to the technology available for study. With the successful completion of our new school buildings next year, the opportunities for sixth formers in Strabane will be second to none. “
Through the scheme proposed by Northgate, students receive a discount on the purchase of the notebook computers that come pre-loaded with Microsoft® applications and essential tools. Notebooks purchased through the programme come with a three-year onsite warranty and variety of services. A tailored webpage link has been provided where students and their parents can review the package offering and place purchase orders online. The notebooks also come equipped with a tailored Education specific package with highly competitive pricing.
Stuart Gunning, Education Client Director at Northgate said,
“Northgate are delighted to be involved in this scheme with both schools, which promises to be highly beneficial for the students as they move through their school years. This will give the students the flexibility to achieve in education individually, and the opportunity to develop their personalised learning techniques. The scheme encourages independence in the student’s approach, a skill which will carry them well in their future studies and into the world of work.
“The provision of affordable ICT products and services illustrates Northgate’s dedication to enabling transformation in learning through the use of ICT, by making sure that the scheme is accessible to all students” he continued.
Jackie Crooks, Business Development Manager, Dell Northern Ireland said, “This initiative will allow students to work anywhere on campus rather than only in a traditional ICT suite. By seamlessly blending technology into education, St Cecilia’s and Holy Cross Colleges will instill in students a drive toward innovation and a competence in technology that will serve as the foundation for any career they choose.
“Extension in education beyond the classroom brings many benefits both to the learner but also within their family and the community in which they live. However, very few secondary schools are considering it as an option. St Cecilia’s and Holy Cross are forward thinking schools and have seized the initiative and potential for extending technology into the learning experience. I congratulate them on their vision – this is a blueprint for other schools to emulate.”
ENDS
