Michael Gove Response ComputerXplorers

Children as young as 7 are already programming computers as leading UK educational technology expert welcomes Gove's speech

ComputerXplorers, the specialist provider of ICT to primary schools since 2006 welcomes the news that the Government is to provide more funding for schools to bring in specialists providers to teach computer skills to children, but points out that for some forward thinking schools who already outsource elements of ICT delivery to ComputerXplorers professionals, programming in 3D, designing Smartphone aps and video animation is already a reality. 

ComputerXplorers classes are delivered by its own trained teachers who are currently involved in over 100 schools throughout the UK. For example, in Sutton Coldfield pupils in the New Oscott Primary School's after school club have programmed and designed their own android apps and children in Belmore Primary in Hayes have been working on creating 3D animated video games.

Nigel Toplis, managing director of ComputerXplorers has long been a campaigner for improved technology education in schools and the company will be offering all the assistance it can to the Government in the forthcoming consultation.

The business specialises in teaching technology to children aged three to 13 and provides fully trained teachers, well designed course content and the use of digital equipment such as microscopes, robots and cameras to schools. Courses combine computer skills with a fun factor helping children to create and use technology as part of their every-day learning from an early age.

Said Nigel Toplis: “Engaging with children at an early age in the right way is vital to a child’s understanding of and interest in, technology. We have only a small window to engage children in ICT - get it wrong and we will be back to square one.

“Specialist teaching is required and course content has to be entertaining and motivating to capture the attention and imagination of young minds.

“Our courses are designed to give children as young as three the skills they need to embrace technology with excitement and enthusiasm and the ability to apply the learning across the whole curriculum - not just ICT classes.

Ends                                                                                                     January 2012

Nigel Toplis is available for media interviews. Media contact Lindsay Jones 01934 838559 or email Lindsay@ljpr.co.uk