Firm’s cash for school computers

Pupils at a Fife school have received a boost to their education during the lockdown in the form of new computer equipment paid for by the operators of Mossmorron petrochemical plant.

ExxonMobil provided funding towards 10 new laptops for Balwearie High School in Kirkcaldy, which will be distributed to pupils who do not have access to a computer, enabling them to continue their school work at home.

The Mossmorran plant was approached by teachers from the school who were keen to see the education of pupils continue as uninterrupted as possible during the pandemic which forced the school to close its doors in March.

Teaching staff had noticed that a number of pupils who did not have access to computers at home were becoming more isolated and at risk of falling behind with their school work, and decided to take action.

Margaret Johnstone, the school’s support services co-ordinator, applied for help.

As well as being used by pupils in the holidays and until schools resume a full timetable, the laptops will be used when pupils have to work from home, including study leave.

Jacob McAlister, Exxonmobil plant manager, said: “Balwearie is a school which clearly cares about its pupils and their education and reaching out for support shows their commitment and innovative thinking and we are delighted to be able to help.”