SOUTH Craven School has taken advantage of the digital revolution to give its pupils access to the latest handheld devices to improve their learning.

Students have been allowed to use either Tablets or iPad minis, giving them quick and easy access to the vast educational resources of the Internet.

The school's pastoral deputy head, Martyn Hill, said: "We want every child to have access to a tablet device to support their learning.

"Since gaining our ‘outstanding’ Ofsted judgement in 2013 we've been continuing to ensure we provide the best teaching and learning for all students at South Craven.

"This has included preparation for a rapidly changing world, which involves more use of digital technology.

"We believe that by introducing a scheme ensuring everyone has access to a Tablet device at home and at school their learning will be enhanced.

"We want every child to either bring their own device, or have an iPad mini via our scheme, which we've set up in conjunction with the E.learning Foundation.

"Each student opting in will either bring their own device or be given access to an iPad mini for use in school and at home.

"It's not a lease or purchase scheme. Over 550 parents have donated £10 per month – or whatever they can afford – and received an iPad mini, case and insurance for the device.

"The initiative has three key objectives –fairness, affordability and sustainability.

"Students have been very excited about the Tablets. The response has been positive from staff as well, with lots of teachers developing exciting ideas about how to get the best out of the technology."

A South Craven spokesman said the school was always looking for ways to improve learning for its students.

She added: "Many people may be horrified by the thought of letting students have electronic devices in class, but we give clear guidance on expectations of behaviour and safety when using these devices.

"We're expecting few problems, because two years ago we allowed students to have mobile phones with them, and our high expectations on the use of these phones have been met.

"Homework will be set via the Tablets, and in the near future it is hoped to have student planners on the Tablets too, getting rid of the paper ones we use now.

"The demise of the exercise book and actual writing by the students is still some way off, as exams are still being written on paper.

"But technology continues to expand, and our students will at least be ready and able to take advantage of any new technological advances."