Rhona Dick
rhona.dick@blueyonder.co.uk
On 27th January Janice Staines, Sue O'Brien and I took the train to London.
No we weren't skiving, or off for a day's shopping, we were among the fortunate who'd received an invitation from Valiant Technology to the unveiling of their latest piece of educational equipment Math-U. Dressed in our finery we made our way to the venue, no ordinary launch this, it was to take place at the House of Lords.
The Houses of Parliament are not as old as they'd have us believe. Largely rebuilt in the 19th Century following a catastrophic fire they are presently undergoing something of a face-lift, and some of the courtyards are shrouded in tarpaulins. Despite this the delicacy of the carving on the honey-coloured stone is breathtaking.
The Cholmondley Room is a long, narrow chamber. Benefiting from almost no natural light the dark green wallpaper lends an atmosphere of gloomy solemnity a feeling reinforced by the oil portraits of the great and the good that adorn the walls.
We were welcomed by Kate Hudson and Gill Manvell of Valiant Technology, and ushered through to the enclosed terrace overlooking the River Thames.
The portcullis
motif on the scarlet plush armchairs was echoed on the etched glass doors to the terrace.
The weather was perfect, clear, bright and very cold, making our view out over the river
almost dazzling. To the east we could see the London Eye, sadly still motionless, and to
the West the grey stone of Lambeth Palace.
Glasses of wine were replenished regularly and the alcohol was soaked up by the most delicious and delicate little canapÈs.
After being welcomed by Baroness Goudie, Dave Catlin, Managing Director of Valiant Technology introduced Math-U to the assembled crowd.
In brief, Math-U is a Maths unit that acts as a satellite to your computer. Up to a term's work can be downloaded and pupils can then use it at their desks or even take it home. The design of the unit is very child friendly - it has the appearance of a games console.
Many consultants have been involved with Math-U's creation, and it is a testament to Valiant's commitment to quality that so many appropriate specialists were appointed to collaborate on this project.
Everyone was given the opportunity for some hands-on as several Math-Us put in an appearance around the room. The general consensus of opinion was that Math-U has a lot going for him.
Eventually it was time to leave this unique venue, but the three of us had had a day to remember.