A Gosport school is celebrating a ‘grand’ donation which will fund new laptops for better socially distanced learning.

Gomer Junior School, in Pyrford Road, is in urgent need of extra equipment so that pupils can maintain their education whether working onsite or remotely from home. Now it has been selected by Persimmon Homes to receive a £1,000 donation under the Community Champions programme.

The funds will boost the provision of additional Chromebook laptops, identified by school fundraisers as key to supporting vital learning activities during lockdown and beyond.

Georgina Mulhall, Executive Head Teacher, said: “We have embraced a blended learning approach within our curriculum. Children are using Chrome books extensively in school which are enhancing much of our provision. The additional devices are invaluable to enable us to work safely in the pandemic. Many thanks to Persimmon Homes.”

Anna Dent, from Friends of Gomer Junior School, said: “These computers are a lifeline. They are needed more than ever as the school finds ways to educate in a safe, socially distanced fashion. This year it has proved impossible to run our usual fundraising events, so this donation from Persimmon is vital for the school and pupils.”

On behalf of Persimmon Homes South Coast, managing director Matthew Paine said: “Under our Community Champions programme, we invite local charities, clubs and societies to apply for one of two donations available every month.”

“We know how disruptive Covid 19 has been to schools throughout the region, with closures forcing many pupils to miss out on lessons at a critical stage of their development,” added Matthew. “We applaud the efforts of Anna and everyone associated with Gomer Junior School as they strive to maintain the highest standards in very testing times. So it’s great to know our donation will go some way to helping out.”

Based in Havant, Persimmon Homes South Coast offers a range of high-quality homes throughout the region, including Harbourside View, a collection of modern two, three, four and five bedroom homes, located in Portchester near Fareham.

To find out more information on Community Champions visit: www.persimmonhomes.com/community-champions