Pupils at Pembroke Dock Community School are enjoying the benefits of the latest technology in their classrooms, thanks to a donation of two iPad tablet computers from Valero Pembroke Refinery.

Carrying out an action research project at the school, iPads were used to take advantage of a wide array of educational apps available that are designed to aid learning, and were found to be particularly helpful for students with special educational needs. The success of the trial, which proved extremely popular with both students and staff, led to a fundraising effort to purchase iPads for the school, which was kindly provided by Valero.

Headteacher Michelle Thomas explained the advantages the school receives from the new resources, saying: "These are very powerful tools that enable our pupils, particularly those with dyslexic learning difficulties, to really reach their potential. The technology is intuitive and allows children to develop their skills and gain a real sense of achievement, which they otherwise could not experience using pen and paper."

Stephen Thornton, Valero public affairs manager, said: "Having these new resources will be great for many pupils who might not have access to such computers at home, and will give them an opportunity to develop their learning skills.

"Valero has always strongly supported many of the schools in our community, but it is really fantastic to see young people being able to take advantage of these new ways to learning."