BLACKPOOL Council have announced details of a technological revolution that is set to transform the town's education service.

By the end of the year every teacher and pupil at Blackpool schools are expected to have their own e-mail address.

In addition, all teachers and a significant number of pupils will be connected to a high-speed Internet link giving them fast access to a wealth of learning at their fingertips.

And as an added bonus, schools can take advantage of top quality equipment at reduced rates thanks to a partnership between the council and computer-makers Gateway.

By installing more advanced technology, council leaders hope the authority will be carried well into the 21st Century while paving the way for further developments. Four Blackpool schools - Devonshire Junior, Bispham Endowed Primary and Montgomery and Collegiate High schools - already have progressive interactive whiteboards which project computer images to the whole class.

Council leader Ivan Taylor said: "Technology is revolutionising the way we all work and has a crucial role to play in education.

"Children are our future and it's vital they are trained in tomorrow's skills to keep pace with today's rapidly changing society.

"Youngsters in Blackpool can look to the future with confidence."

Headmaster of Devonshire Junior School Neil Hodgkins agreed: "We firmly believe children need to be trained in tomorrow's skills to ensure they keep pace with the rapid advances in technology, promoting confidence and opportunity for the future."

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