Access to technology is now embedded in every aspect of education. From homework and revision to communication and curriculum delivery, pupils are expected to engage with digital tools both in and out of the classroom. Yet for many families, reliable access to a suitable device at home is still not guaranteed. Initiatives like Give a Laptop have helped shine a light on this issue, but more importantly, they've created a model that continues to support schools and trusts long after the original campaign.
What is the Give a Laptop initiative?
The original Give a Laptop campaign, launched as part of the BBC Make a Difference initiative, encouraged individuals and organisations to donate unused devices to pupils who needed them most. While the campaign itself is no longer front and centre, the infrastructure and demand it highlighted remain very much in place.
Today, a range of charities, social enterprises, and IT recycling providers continue to collect, refurbish, and redistribute devices to schools and families. What began as a rapid response has evolved into an ongoing, sustainable approach to digital inclusion in schools.
Why digital inclusion still matters for trusts
For MAT leaders and school finance teams, the digital divide is not just a pastoral concern - it has a direct impact on educational outcomes, operational consistency, and long-term planning.
Pupils without access to devices at home can struggle to complete homework, access online resources, and fully engage with revision and independent study. Over time, this can widen attainment gaps and create additional pressure on schools to provide in-school alternatives.
At the same time, many trusts are managing increasingly complex IT estates, often with surplus or aging equipment that is no longer in active use. Without a clear strategy, these assets can quickly become both a storage issue and a missed opportunity, particularly when budgets are under pressure and efficiency is a priority.
Turning surplus IT into support
This is where initiatives like Give a Laptop align closely with wider trust strategy. Donating unused devices is not just a charitable act, it's a practical way to unlock value from existing resources and support IT asset management for MATs.
By working with accredited providers, devices can be securely wiped, refurbished, and redistributed to pupils who need them, ensuring both compliance and impact. It also supports wider sustainability goals by reducing e-waste and extending the lifecycle of IT equipment.
For trusts, this creates a simple but effective way to align operational efficiency with social impact.
Where ICT strategy and audits make the difference
Understanding what equipment you have, what you need, and what can be repurposed is key to making this work effectively.
Through ICT audits and strategic reviews, schools and trusts can gain a clear picture of their current infrastructure, identify underutilised assets, and plan more effectively for refresh cycles. In many cases, these audits uncover opportunities to redeploy or donate devices that would otherwise sit unused.
Taking a more structured approach to ICT not only supports digital inclusion but also strengthens financial planning, improves resource allocation, and ensures technology investments are delivering full value across the trust.
How to get involved
Getting involved is straightforward, and many of the organisations continuing this work operate year-round.
Trusts can donate surplus devices through accredited schemes, ensuring data is securely handled and equipment is responsibly refurbished. Schools can also register their need, helping to support pupils who may otherwise be digitally excluded. Over time, some trusts choose to formalise this through partnerships, embedding device reuse into their wider ICT and sustainability strategies.
A more sustainable, long-term approach
What makes the evolution of Give a Laptop particularly valuable is its shift from a reactive campaign to a long-term solution. It reflects a broader change in how the sector is thinking about technology. Not just as a cost, but as an asset that can deliver value in multiple ways.
For MATs balancing tight budgets, efficiency targets, and increasing demand, this kind of approach matters. It supports better resource management, contributes to sustainability goals, and helps ensure that every pupil has access to the tools they need to succeed.
Final thoughts
The conversation around digital access has moved on, but the need has not. If anything, it has become more embedded in the day-to-day reality of schools and trusts.
By revisiting initiatives like Give a Laptop through a more strategic lens, trusts have an opportunity to do more than simply donate devices. They can create a more efficient, sustainable, and equitable approach to managing technology across their organisation.
Looking to take a more strategic approach to your ICT?
School Business Services supports trusts with ICT audits, infrastructure reviews, and ongoing support to help you maximise the value of your technology. Whether you're planning your next refresh cycle or looking to better manage existing assets, our team can help you build a more efficient and sustainable ICT strategy.
Get in touch today to discuss strategic ICT support.
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