Gov pledges to tackle digital divide between schools
Following a consultation with schools, the government has set out expectations for schools and colleges to meet six digital standards by 2030
The Department for Education (DfE) has promised to help ”narrow the digital divide” in schools, promising to make “outdated systems and patchy connectivity a thing of the past”.
Following a consultation with schools, the government has set 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”.
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.
The government noted that cyber security and filtering and monitoring standards are designed so that as digital access improves, school IT systems are protected from cyber security threats and the risk of online threats.
To support schools, the government will expand its Plan technology for school services 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 £45m investment this year to boost school infrastructure, including upgrades to fibre and wireless networks.
The minister for Early Education, Stephen Morgan, said: “Every child deserves access to the digital tools that will prepare them for the modern world, regardless of which school they attend. For too long, we’ve seen a postcode lottery where some pupils thrive with cutting-edge technology whilst others are held back by outdated equipment.
“Meeting our six digital standards will ensure that by 2030, all schools have the digital provision they need. We’re investing in our children’s futures, supporting pupils to get the digital access they need to succeed whilst keeping them safe online. This is a key part of our Plan for Change – ensuring every child has the chance to reach their full potential and no pupil is left behind in the digital age.”
Schools will work towards meeting the standards by 2030, with government support to “ensure no pupil is left behind in the digital age”.
