PROJECT: TECHNICAL SUPPORT FOR ICT

Project Leader: St. Benedict’s Catholic School and Sports College
Schools in Cluster: St. Benedict’s, Gloucester Road Primary, St.
Thomas More RC Primary, Monkscroft Primary

DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT
· To provide technical support for ICT within the four schools by employing, term-time only, an ICT technician on scale 4, point 21 on the NJ scale. The technician is responsible for the networks in each school, the maintenance of hardware and peripherals and installing software as necessary. He is also responsible for shared equipment.
· To develop strategies for effective sharing of specialist ICT equipment which was purchased as part of the bid.

COLLABORATION
The four schools already have several areas in which they work collaboratively. This project is designed to build on this collaboration in a new area. The ICT technician is employed by the lead school and has a line manager in the same school. Funding is set aside for travelling expenses and the purchase of tools, etc. He works agreed hours in each school. The four Head Teachers meet at least termly to monitor arrangements.

REPLICABILITY
This project could be replicated by other clusters. It requires careful planning, close collaboration and flexibility.

CONTRIBUTION TO STANDARDS
The ICT provision for pupils has been considerably enhanced. They are provided with a much wider range of ICT experiences, through the sharing of specialist equipment, than was previously possible. Equipment is well maintained and more reliable. This helps to ensure that maximum benefit is derived from ICT lessons. The schools are now confident that they are fulfilling the National Curriculum for ICT.

SUSTAINABILITY
The project is funded until the end of March 2004. The schools are hoping to be able to sustain the project for a longer period by providing the necessary funding themselves.