Pupils and staff across the country will have access to reliable, safe technology in their classroom as the government announces plans to help narrow the digital divide in schools - making outdated systems and patchy connectivity a thing of the past, News Cover reports, citing UK government.
Across the country there are stark inequalities where some pupils suffer from basic digital access whilst others benefit from cutting-edge technology, including AI – creating unfair barriers to learning and future opportunities.
Following consultation with schools, the government is today (16 July) setting out expectations for schools and colleges to meet six digital standards by 2030, helping to end the postcode lottery in access to tech that has left too many pupils behind, by preventing teachers from delivering modern lessons and stopping pupils developing digital skills essential for modern careers.
The six standards cover broadband internet, wireless networks, network switches, digital leadership, plus two safety requirements: cyber security and filtering and monitoring to keep pupils safe online.
Online safety is at the heart of the government’s plans, with the cyber security and filtering and monitoring standards designed so that as digital access improves, school IT systems are protected from cyber security threats and the risk of online threats – ensuring technology enhances children’s education.
To support schools, the government will expand its Plan technology for your school service to give every school tailored support and guidance on how and where to make lasting, cost effective improvements to their technology.
This comes alongside a £45 million investment from government this year to boost school infrastructure, including upgrades to fibre and wireless networks – helping get classrooms online and boosting standards where it is most needed.
