If i got the message right, were you suggesting to go for "windows" as it's user base is vast.

My intention behind mentioning the age group is to look out for an interface which would not scare the kids off.
Aiming to have suggestions around the eye:
a. Operating System to be taught to the students.
b. Operating System to be used to present the content (I mean some thing to grab maximum attention of the student)
c. Gadgets that could be provided to make students work in the absence of the computer even but that should be presented once in class room.

Some thoughts towards how "work at home" schemes could be made reliable as a source to purchase and pursue education. In other words how any continuous work of this nature (like data entry, testing etc) is available and how it could be won?

I think this elaboration would surely put you at ease to suggest spot on.