Transport for London (TfL) has helped schools across the capital, including one in Collier Row, save money by donating more than 800 laptops, iPads and computers to help children learn.

Launched during the 2020 pandemic, TfL's Devices for Schools programme supports schools with a lack of online learning tools.

The programme has so far helped 38 London schools - including Clockhouse Primary School in Romford - relieving the financial burden of purchasing new devices.

By reusing like-new, reprogrammed laptops, iPads and desktop computers, this initiative extends the life of devices that would otherwise be disposed of, minimising waste and greenhouse gas emissions.

Clockhouse Primary School's headteacher, Jo Savidge, said: "A huge thank you to TfL for donating these laptops.

"We are so grateful. 

"The money we have saved will allow us to put that money back into the budget to support the children's learning."

Clockhouse Primary has been benefitting from the laptops (Image: Luca Marino (TfL))

Ms Savidge added: "Our drive is to always give our children the very best education experience and ensure they're ready for the next steps of learning.

"These laptops will allow us to do that and to allow our children to prepare for their future."

The devices are prepared for student use by TfL volunteers, who follow standard checks to assure they are in good condition before distributing them in person to schools.

The project's expansion has also been helped by support from staff, businesses and communities.

More schools are expected to join over the upcoming months.

Evren Altinok, who came up with the idea and leads the TfL volunteers, said: "We’re pleased to be providing young Londoners with access to the right tools for their digital and technology learning and adding new ways they can learn in classrooms.

"We are excited to see this initiative growing 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."

The next phase of the project will start soon, seeing Places for London, TfL’s wholly owned property company, expand its outreach to more schools around its commercial and housing sites.

This phase intends to donate more than 6,000 extra devices to schools.