The UK government has announced plans to narrow the digital divide in schools to ensure that all staff and pupils have access to reliable and safe technology in the classroom.

The government said that there are “stark inequalities” where some pupils suffer from basic digital access whilst others benefit from cutting-edge technology, including AI, which creates unfair barriers to learning and future opportunities.

To bridge the divide, the government has set six digital standards which schools are expected to meet by 2030 which cover digital leadership, wireless networks as well as cyber security monitoring.

To support schools, the government said it will expand its technology plan to give every school tailored support and guidance on how and where to make lasting, cost-effective improvements to their technology.

The technology plan comes alongside a £45 million investment from government this year to boost school infrastructure, including upgrades to fibre and wireless networks, with the aim of helping get classrooms online.

Minister for early education Stephen Morgan said the plan would ensure that every child has the chance to reach their full potential and no pupil is left behind in the digital age.

“Every child deserves access to the digital tools that will prepare them for the modern world, regardless of which school they attend,” he added. “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we’ve seen a postcode lottery where some pupils thrive with cutting-edge technology whilst others are held back by outdated equipment.”

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