Schools and students are today being called on to enter the BT Internet Rangers competition by Friday 2nd November 2012.  The 2012 awards are now open for applications from  both schools and children under the age of 16 who are bridging the generational and digital divide by helping older people to get online and teaching them basic IT and internet skills.

Last year’s entry of more than 180 applications across the UK was the largest since the scheme began 11 years ago. BT Internet Rangers form part of both BT’s wider Get IT Together and Connected Communities programmes, which are aimed at instilling confidence and empowering people to get online.

There are fantastic prizes to be won: iPads, laptops and IT vouchers for children and teachers and cash prizes up to £4,000 for individual schools. Children can be nominated by their friends, family, school, or even by themselves. It’s easy to apply, all you have to do is visit the website: www.bt.com/internetrangers and complete an online application form before Friday 2 November 2012.

Peter Morris, Corporate Services director, BT, said: “This year we are once again eager to hear about the selfless efforts of schools and children who are helping elderly people to get online in a range of different and innovative ways. The awards are an opportunity to acknowledge their patience and dedication. Past entries have highlighted that the internet is a powerful tool and that anyone can reap its benefits, no matter what their age or circumstances.

“BT Internet Rangers Awards  have revealed some truly inspiring individuals in the past, from children helping their disabled or seriously ill parents to make the most of the internet to youngsters encouraging older generations to become ‘Silver Surfers’. To many of us it may be second nature, but for others the simple act of going online can offer life enhancing benefits.  If you know of a young person who is supporting others in this way, please do nominate them or tell them about the award.”Previous winners have assisted people to get online in a range of ways and significantly helped to bridge the generational divide of technology. Last year’s Northern Ireland winner, Ben Robson from Newtownabbey, Belfast, volunteers once a week at a computer course held at his school. He teaches elderly people how to get online and how to use the internet to benefit them in a host of ways.

Ben, who has to deal with a stammer he developed at a young age, said: “Teaching older people about the internet has given me a lot more confidence. I understand the frustration people feel when they are unable to do things so I like being able to help.”

The closing date to submit applications is 5:30pm on Friday 2 November 2012.

Pictured is last year’s BT Internet Ranger Northern Ireland winner Ben Robson from Newtownabbey, Belfast who helped bridge the generational and digital divide of technology.

- ENDS -For media enquiries, please contact:Lyn Sheridan, Aiken PR on 028 9066 3000 orPriscilla O’Regan, Head of Communications, BT Ireland, 01 432 5162 or 086 633 5398

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