Schools 'on track' for online target

The majority of primary pupils use the internet at school

Nearly all secondary schools in England are now connected to the internet, according to government figures.

Statistics published on Wednesday by the Department for Education suggest that 98% of secondary schools - 3,470 out of 3,550 - are now online.

Primary schools are not too far behind, with 86% having internet access - 15,610 out of 18,158.

The figure for special schools is 92%, or 1,100 out of 1,200 schools.

Michael Wills: "We're well on track"

Overall, the government says that about 88% of all schools in England have internet access.

The statistics, compiled from a sample survey carried out in April, are being hailed as a triumph by ministers.

They indicate considerable improvements since last year, when a similar survey revealed, for example, that only 62% of primary schools were online.

Michael Wills, Minister for Technology and Learning, said the government was "well on track" to meet its pledge to connect every school to the internet by 2002.

'Raising standards'

"Today's news proves that our investment in bringing the internet and opportunity to schools up and down the country.

"The terrific pace of change in primaries alone - with around 4,300 more primary schools going online in the last year - shows the great gains we have made.

"There are now more computers per pupil than ever before, and that means more hands-on experience for children, helping to raise standards and improve computer skills.

"Bringing information technology into the classroom is helping us to raise standards in education."