A total of 34 tablet computers have been provided to families in Knightswood, Drumchapel and Scotstoun to help them use the internet – and help the youngsters keep up with their school work.

GHA, part of Wheatley Group, stepped up when the head teacher of a primary school in Knightswood asked her local GHA office if they could help some pupils access the internet.

The school provides online lessons for kids, but many parents had to pick up printed copies because they either didn’t have the internet or because children had to share a mobile phone to access the work.

GHA has now provided 24 tablets for pupils at Bankhead Primary, as well as another 10 for families who live in multi-storeys in the north west of the city.

The tablet computers – provided by the Wheatley Foundation, with the help of one-off funding from the Scottish Government for the project – mean pupils can get lessons uploaded to their tablets. They’ll be able to use the computers during term time too.

Trevor Walsh, from Knightswood, said it will be a big help to stepson John, 11. Trevor said: “The tablet will make a big difference to John. He’s very interested in technology and he’s more likely to work with the tablet. It will make things easier for him and will be really good for his concentration.”

Bilal Pashton, 7, from Knightswood, is also excited about the tablet. Dad Pashton said: “This will be a great help to Bilal. He’s missing school, his friends and his teacher, so the tablet will make him more connected. He’s very excited. It’s great that GHA is helping young people like this.”

Celine McKinlay, head teacher of Bankhead Primary in Knightswood, said: “I thought we might be fortunate enough to receive a couple of tablets, but when GHA said they would provide tablet computers for 24 families, I was overwhelmed by the generosity. I know the families will be very grateful too and I’m looking forward to seeing how the tablets will enhance the children’s learning. Thank you very much to everyone at GHA and the Wheatley Foundation.”

Lorraine McLaren, director of the Wheatley Foundation, added: “Access to the internet is such an important part of life that many of us take for granted. These tablet computers will not only help young people with their schoolwork – but help families in our communities enjoy the benefits of being online.”

Any GHA tenant who needs help to get online has been encouraged to contact their housing officer.