Computacenter offers cut-price PCs to Welsh schools

Corporate VAR aiming to sell 10,000 devices a year to Welsh schools as part of Microsoft's Shape the Future programme

Computacenter is aiming to shift 30,000 Lenovo devices to Welsh schools as part of a Microsoft-backed initiative designed to drive up PC penetration among pupils.

The corporate reseller will source, build, configure and deliver the cut-price devices via the Value Wales framework.

It is also in the process of establishing a number of regional training centres at schools throughout Wales.

The three-year scheme is backed by Microsoft's Shape the Future programme, which offers computers to 14-to-19-year olds at "a significantly reduced price" and is also being delivered by other VARs including Softcat.

Talking to CRN, Glen Williams, head of regional government at Computacenter, said the goal is to achieve a one-to-one ratio between students and PCs at Welsh schools.

"We estimate that [it will involve] roughly 10,000 devices a year and will save schools £350,000 a year - driven principally by Microsoft from a licensing perspective," he said.

"This is incremental to what they might spend otherwise because the savings give them an incentive to invest."

Williams said the initiative is also about improving the IT curriculum, with students able to gain certifications in Microsoft's applications and operating systems. The first training centre, in Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council, is set to launch in September but more will follow, he indicated.

Steve Beswick, UK education director at Microsoft, commented: "Shape the Future is designed to provide better one-to-one computing experiences for young people and aims to improve their confidence, IT skills and ultimately their employability.

"At a time of high youth unemployment, we think it is more important than ever that we invest in our young people. We are excited to work with Computacenter on this programme which will enable us to make a true impact in preparing students for the 21st century in schools throughout Wales."