SWGfL Merlin, centrally funded by member LAs, provides the foundation for school learning platforms across the South West of England. Designed for education, it supports important government initiatives, including Every Child Matters, Personalised Learning and Access to information. The SWGfL Merlin service includes simplified sign on with virtual desktops, communication and collaboration tools and online space to store files and resources.

The service integrates management information systems, virtual learning environments and additional tools and content chosen by schools, with an emphasis on e-safety. SWGfL Merlin is also available for the whole community of services for children and young people.

View the Merlin minisite

Who benefits?

Teachers can:

• Create and share teaching materials
• Put your resources and lesson plans online
• Customise learning for the exact needs of your pupils
• Supply teachers will have access to resources and current learning plans
• Receive submissions of work from pupils
• Manage your diary, personal file space and receive targeted
• News within your personalised desktop space
• Increase your ICT confidence.

Pupils can:

• Access learning materials created by their teachers and others
• Store work and notes online for use in assignments, homework and revision
• Work at their own pace
• Create an online portfolio, (including digital photos and videos of performance)
• Submit work and assignments for marking or discussion
• Communicate, collaborate and participate in live discussions and forums with other students and teachers.

Parents can:

• Support children in any learning which takes place outside school
• Communicate more effectively with teachers
• Engage with wider school issues through online communication and shared spaces.

For further informatiohn please download the Merlin flyer (PDF).


For further information view the Merlin minisite