Computer-mad children were jumping for joy when their wish for a new technology centre at their school was eventually granted.

Pupils from Beechview School, in Guinions Road, High Wycombe, have been given 20 new computers, worth thousands of pounds after months of fundraising by members of the school.

Alistair Burt MP, the shadow minister of further and higher education, went along to a ceremony on Friday to declare the suite officially open.

An assembly was also held in the school hall which outlined to children the need to study hard for a brighter future and that computers were there to help them achieve the personal goals that they have.

Mr Burt said: "You do have to set your heart on something and really go for it. It is not always easy to get it but reaching it really matters.

"You also have the skills to teach grown-ups how to use the computer. That is a special skill to take with you."

Headteacher Barbara Smith said: "The reason why we wanted to do it is because in your lives you will all have to reach out and try very hard to get what you want in life. What is it that you want to be when you grow up?

"In life if you want something you have to work at it to get it. Hopefully our computer room will help a lot."

Sue Horswells, the chairman of governors said the computer suite will be fantastic as there will now only be two pupils sat at the computer rather than four like there used to be.

She added it has been a lot of hard work getting the money together but all the hours of work have been worth it as the children are delighted.

Pupil Natasha Daly said: "It is well cool because it is better than reading books. It can take ages to look things up in books but the internet is quick and easy. When I was chosen to show people what to do on the computers I was really pleased as I love working on computers."

July 11, 2002 13:00