London, 4th December 2024 – The Connecting Communities initiative, a multi-sector partnership tackling digital inequality led by the East End Community Foundation (EECF), is proud to announce its expansion into the London borough of Newham, beginning with Sandringham Primary School.
As part of this launch, Sandringham Primary School will be receiving 100 devices, training and broadband connections, supporting students and their families in accessing essential technology and connectivity. Building on its success of delivering over 700 devices to families in Tower Hamlets, the programme is bridging the digital divide and addressing educational inequalities by providing essential technology and support to disadvantaged families in London’s East End.
Robert Cleary, Headteacher, commented: “Thank you for your generous gift to the children of Sandringham Primary School. Many of our children will now have access to the technology they need to engage with their learning more effectively, enhancing their digital skills and preparing them for the future.
We know your very kind donation will empower our children to thrive and flourish at school and home. The commitment from Connecting Communities to supporting education is truly inspiring, and we are deeply appreciative of your well-considered focus on what our families need.
We are excited to be part of this partnership that will bring long-term benefit to our children, families, and community.”
Newham, like many London boroughs, faces a significant digital access challenge. Currently, 11% of students lack access to a home computer, while approximately 4% do not have internet connectivity. With approximately 62,000 school-aged students (5-18 years old) in the borough, this disparity contributes to a growing educational attainment gap, making digital inclusion an urgent priority.
To support this mission, Barings, a global asset manager and one of our corporate partners, has pledged £150,000 over two years to the Connecting Communities initiative. This generous commitment will enable at least 150 disadvantaged families in Newham to receive brand new laptops, broadband access, and a comprehensive seven-step IT training programme, equipping them with vital digital skills for modern life.
In addition, Newham Council has provided 40 broadband connections to the project, ensuring more families in the borough can benefit from the vital technology and internet access they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
EECF Chief Executive and Chair of the Connecting Communities partnership, Tracey Walsh, expressed her enthusiasm for the programme’s expansion, stating: “We are excited to extend our Connecting Communities programme to help address digital inequality for families in Newham. Thank you to Barings and Newham Council for their generous support and shared commitment to creating opportunities for our local communities.”
Martin Horne, Head of Barings Europe, said “We are proud to support the invaluable work that Connecting Communities does to help the local communities of Newham. We hope that our contribution will enable young people and families in need to build brighter futures.”
Councillor Charlene McLean, Cabinet Member for Resident Experience and Engagement said: “We are thrilled to be part of the Connecting Communities partnership. This initiative will provide much-needed digital access to our young people, empowering families with the tools and support to help ensure their children have every opportunity to succeed.”
The launch in Newham represents a significant step forward in Connecting Communities’ ongoing mission to reduce digital inequality in the East End. With continued collaboration and the generous support of partners, this initiative aims to empower more families and close the digital gap that hinders educational progress.
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