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The UK education minister has given schools more freedom to spend money on ICT

Education and Skills Secretary Charles Clarke has announced plans that will allow schools to spend their devolved capital money on technology. He also promised extra funds for interactive whiteboards in schools.

Speaking at the BETT education technology conference and exhibition on 7 January 2004, Clarke said he is taking the measures to encourage schools to invest in the latest technology to support the learning of children in this country.

"ICT transforms education and the way that children learn," he said. "Every child matters, and I want a system of personalised learning that allows each of them to learn at their own pace, in ways that suit them best.

"Effective use of the latest technology is absolutely vital to realising this vision. It is not about technology, it is about what technology can do to meet the personal needs of every learner, raising their aspirations and achievement.

"That is why I am changing the rules and allowing schools to invest their devolved capital money in technology if they have the means and desire to do so. We need local solutions for local needs to make sure that every pupil gets the most out of the technology available, and schools are best placed to decide where the money should be spent."

Clarke also said the Ministry of Education will provide £25m for interactive whiteboards in schools in 2004-05, on top of the £25m already committed for 2003-04.

He said the funds are being made available for whiteboards - touch sensitive boards connected to a digital projector and computer - because they enable teachers to enrich their lessons. They make it possible to enhance presentations by integrating video, animation, graphics, text and audio.