Learning and Technology World Forum

Prominent ministers, policymakers and influencers in the education and skills sector gathered in London for the official opening of the Learning and Technology World Forum 2010, the largest international event on the use of technology in education, taking place at the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre from 11 – 13 January.

The Prime Minister, Gordon Brown officially opened the Forum by launching the national rollout of Home Access, a government programme managed by Becta, the UK government's agency responsible for driving the effective use of technology in education, which provides grants for computer and internet access to low income families.

The Prime Minister said: “This Forum is an invaluable opportunity for countries to learn from one another and our collective commitment to world-wide improvement in education will drive up standards and increase opportunities for learners across the world. Education is vital for building our skill base and raising our aspirations and prospects at any age. I am proud that the UK nurtures and attracts so many learners who benefit from the expertise of our teachers and lecturers."

Stephen Crowne, Chief Executive, Becta, added: “Equipping our current and future generations with the necessary skills to compete in a digital world is crucial to our future. Through innovative programmes such as Home Access, Becta is driving this development. We can see in schools and colleges across Britain how the use of technology breeds greater success for students and teachers alike. The Learning and Technology World Forum allows us to build on our achievements by learning from experiences across the world to improve education and technology for us all globally.”