Supporting Digital Learning During Covid-19
The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for schools, families, and communities. For many children, continuing their education remotely was difficult, particularly for those without access to the right digital equipment. Recognising this growing need, Grocott & Murfit, through their charitable non-profit community initiative, donated over 40 laptops to Fakenham Junior School.
Following conversations with the headteacher, it became clear that this donation had a significant and lasting impact, especially for families who were digitally vulnerable and for children with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
The Challenges of Remote Learning During COVID-19
Like many schools across the country, Fakenham Junior School faced significant barriers when learning moved online. Some children did not have access to a laptop at all, while others were required to share a single device between multiple family members.
This lack of access made it difficult for pupils to fully engage with learning, complete work effectively, or take part in online activities and events. For families already facing challenges, the digital divide added another layer of difficulty during an already stressful time.
The Laptop Donation and Distribution
Fakenham Junior School received approximately 42 laptops from Grocott & Murfit, all set up specifically for home learning. Senior staff worked closely with families to ensure the devices could be used effectively, even helping to connect laptops to home Wi-Fi or providing Wi-Fi dongles where needed.
Initially, the laptops were prioritised for vulnerable pupils who were not attending school in person. Just over 30 laptops were distributed to homes, while the remaining devices were used within the school to support learning on site.
Identifying Pupils Most in Need
The school used clear criteria to identify which children would benefit most from receiving a device. Priority was given to families who were digitally disadvantaged, those with SEN requirements, families already known to social services, and households with multiple children sharing very limited access to technology.
This targeted approach ensured that the laptops reached the pupils for whom they would make the greatest difference.
Impact on Engagement and Learning
To help families manage expectations, the school delivered very few live online lessons. Instead, lessons were recorded and shared, with work completed and sent back to teachers. The laptops enabled many families to access these lessons consistently and return work that otherwise may not have been possible.
In some households, the devices also supported older siblings attending live online lessons at Fakenham Academy, further extending the benefit of the donation.
Feedback From Parents and Pupils
Feedback from parents and children was overwhelmingly positive. Families were grateful for the support, and pupils valued having access to their own device. The laptops were well cared for and, where loaned, were returned to the school once in-person learning resumed.
Reflecting on the Overall Impact
“This was an invaluable donation that enabled us to support some of our most vulnerable learners and families both during and in the recovery from the pandemic. Without the donation many children would have struggled to engage with learning which in turn would have had an even more detrimental impact on their progress. I speak on behalf of the school and community in thanking Grocott and Murfit for their generosity.” Adam Mason, Headteacher, Fakenham Junior School
“When schools needed support the most, we wanted to step up. Donating laptops during COVID was our way of helping students stay connected, keep learning, and feel supported—even while apart.” Daniel Grocott, Director
Grocott & Murfit’s donation made a real difference at a time of great need, helping to reduce digital inequality and leaving a lasting legacy of support for learning and inclusion.
