My Department has already recognised this and has been working specifically on the technical support issue since January and will offer advice to schools during the Autumn term.

There is a shortage of teachers but the January 2001 schools census showed that teacher numbers were at their highest level than at any time since 1984 - and 11,000 higher than 1997.

Schools already invest in computers for pupils and have more IT equipment than ever before. But children need access to computers both at school and at home. That's whey we need to see an increase in portable technologies that can be used beyond the classroom and at school.

By creating useful job descriptions and making clear what qualifications should be expected, the Department aims to help improve schools' ability to recruit the right people.

OFSTED has made large cuts in the paperwork which schools are asked to provide and further steps to reduce the bureaucratic burden will be introduced in September.

I taught for 17 years in an inner city comprehensive schools.