British schools in Net frenzy

The government claimed today that virtually all British schools were now hooked up to the Net.

Just four per cent of primary schools are still waiting to get online, compared to 83 per cent in 1997.

Meanwhile, 'almost all' secondary schools have Internet access, according to the report.

The ratio of computers to pupils has also improved. Primary schools have one computer for every 11.8 children, compared to one for every 17.6 four years ago.

In secondary schools, there is one computer for every 7.1 pupils, up from one per 8.7.

The government's National Grid for Learning baseline aims to have every school connected to the Net by 2002, with 20 per cent using broadband. It also has a target of one computer for every 11 primary school pupils, and one for seven pupils in secondary schools.

Schools Minister Catherine Ashton said the government must ensure that all schools were connected soon, and promised help to any still not online.

Oh, and she's pleased that 73 per cent of teachers say they feel confident using computers. ®

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