Robot starts school - 9th September 2024

At schools everywhere, the new term's starting. Children are preparing to return. But for Howard Thomas it’s different. He can't go. He’s sending his robot instead.

Howard is 12 years old and last year he became ill. Doctors said it was cancer. Howard started chemotherapy, but this made him feel sick. He often missed school. He felt unhappy and alone.

Two charities wanted to help. They got Howard a robot. “AV Howard” sits in class with his friends. Howard can control the robot from home.

AV Howard can read books and Howard speaks through his robot. Howard’s friends carry AV Howard to different classes. They put AV Howard on the desk with them. They talk with Howard through his robot.

The machine recharges at night. Then it’s ready for the next day.

Soon, Howard will be ready to return to school. But with AV Howard, he can now study and have fun with his friends.