Last month, Local Space donated 14 laptops to TCES East London school which offers specialist education to exceptional neurodiverse children aged seven to 19 years old. Helping local students gain access to digital equipment is part of our commitment to contributing to the community we work and operate in.
On 26 September, Josie Parsons, CEO of Local Space and Gordon Fraser, Head of Corporate Services, met the headteacher, Ishamar Blacke at TCES East London school to donate 14 laptops to their students and take a tour of the school. They joined students at an art class and visited a space for parents and students to use for counselling services and to make use of specialist equipment to feel safe and secure.
The children at TCES East London have a range of neurodiverse needs including autism and social, emotional and mental health needs and related conditions. The school has a no-exclusion policy where they will never give up on a student no matter what. Their six core values support this policy and they pride themselves in creating a safe, nurturing and inspiring environment where students and able to thrive.
Local Space’s IT team identified that we had spare laptops that were no longer being used and led a project to gift them to a local school. We chose TCES East London school because we wanted to ensure that these students have access to essential technology that supports their unique learning needs. By donating these laptops, it empowers students by giving them the tools they need to engage in their education more effectively. This can lead to improved academic outcomes, enhanced digital skills, and greater independence.
This initiative was driven by our commitment to inclusivity and providing equal opportunities for all students, regardless of their needs. It also demonstrates our dedication to social responsibility and community engagement.
Ishamar Blake, Headteacher of TCES East London said:
“I want to express our heartfelt gratitude for the generous donation of laptops. This level of support is unprecedented for our students, and it will significantly enhance their learning at all levels. The laptops will give them the best opportunity to succeed, especially as they start on the new information technology course. Your donation could not have come at a better time, and we are truly grateful. On behalf of all the students and staff at East London, a big thank you.”
Josie Parsons, Chief Executive of Local Space said:
“It was an incredible opportunity to deliver these laptops in person and meet the inspiring headteacher, teachers and students. What the school does for these students and their families is life-changing.
“As a housing association, we believe it’s important to help people, not just within our properties, but in the community we operate in too.
“Technology can support children with neurodiverse needs by facilitating inclusion, improving access to the curriculum, and enabling students to work independently. We will continue to give back to our community at every opportunity we have.”
Local Space provide safe and quality homes for those in need. We are more than just bricks, mortar, rents, repairs and re-lets. We play an increasingly important role as we operate and contribute to local communities through invested capital and supporting our tenants to live in their homes.