The donation came from Rural Aid, who are using donated money to support nine rural schools in the Upper Hunter region, providing 203 laptops to take the burden off remote learning.

QHS said the "exceptional generosity" of the $40,000 donation as part of Rural Aid's 'Gift of Music' last term has greatly assisted students with their online learning.

Students have been using the laptops both at home and at school as the transition to school continues.

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"There is not too much I can say really except: Thank you, Thank you, Thank you," Ian Worley, Principal, Quirindi High School, said.

They also thanked their teachers and staff, who had worked around the clock to set them all up for their students.

They especially thanked IT guru Mr Maczi, "who has not had much sleep over the past five weeks as the demand on his immeasurable IT skills has been intense with the move to online learning."

Both principal of Willow Tree Public Jane McKenzie, and principal of Quirindi Public, John Ireland, said the move was absolutely and truly "fantastic."

Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said for many families, particularly those in rural and remote communities, gaining access to suitable technology, at speed, is required to enable remote learning.

"Rural Aid is working directly with the Education Departments in New South Wales and Queensland to roll out technology support to more schools and students," Mr Warlters said.

"With the challenges brought on now by COVID-19, adding to the impact of drought and fire for many of these farmers, these laptops will help rural families access much needed resources to educate their children from home and when they are back in the classroom."

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