The Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, has unveiled ambitious plans to modernize the education sector, harnessing technology to drive teaching innovation and improve outcomes for
students. Speaking at The Bett Show in London, Phillipson emphasized the importance of embracing a new era of technological advancement to benefit teachers and students alike.
Vision for a Technological Transformation
In her keynote address, Phillipson declared, "The world of even five years ago is gone forever. Now we must seize the opportunities of the future to modernize our education system, back our teachers, and deliver better life chances for our children." She outlined a comprehensive strategy to integrate technology into every aspect of education, from purchasing decisions to teacher training and classroom implementation.
Benefits of Technology in Education
Research underscores the transformative potential of technology in education. Studies by the Education Endowment Foundation reveal that effective use of digital tools can accelerate learning by two to three months. Additionally, a Department for Education survey found that over two-thirds of school leaders reported improved student attainment due to educational technology.
AI as a Tool for Teachers and Students
Phillipson highlighted the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to reduce teacher workload, alleviating stress and enabling educators to focus on teaching. "AI can be a radical, modernizing force for change—a force for good in the lives of working people," she stated. She also announced collaborative efforts with major tech companies, including Google, Microsoft, Adobe, and Amazon Web Services, to establish safety standards for AI tools in classrooms. These guidelines prioritize child-centered design and include safeguards to filter harmful content.
To support teachers, a new training package on using AI effectively and safely will be available by Spring 2025. Developed by the Chiltern Learning Trust and the Chartered College of Teaching, the resources aim to help educators save time on administrative tasks and enhance classroom experiences.
Enhancing Accessibility for Vulnerable Students
Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, the government plans to integrate assistive technology training into the curriculum for all new teachers. Tools like text-to-speech software and dictation tools have already shown remarkable benefits in pilot programs, boosting independence, confidence, and engagement for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). These initiatives aim to close the digital divide and ensure every child has access to the tools they need to thrive.
Simplifying Technology Adoption for Schools
To address challenges in selecting and adopting technology, the Department for Education is launching a service called "Plan Technology for Your School." This initiative helps schools make informed decisions about technology investments based on their specific needs. Additionally, the EdTech Evidence Board will pilot methods to evaluate AI products, ensuring schools choose effective and reliable tools.
Streamlined Support for Schools
The government is also enhancing its digital services with the development of "DfE Connect," a platform designed to simplify administrative tasks and improve access to resources. Currently focused on financial tasks for pre-16 academies, the service will expand to support broader needs, freeing up time for school leaders to focus on education quality.
A Commitment to Future-Ready Education
These measures reflect the government’s commitment to equipping schools for a digital future, ensuring that every child, regardless of background, can access the opportunities and resources needed to succeed in an increasingly technological world. With these initiatives, the Education Secretary aims to inspire confidence and spark innovation in classrooms across the country. Photo by Lauren Hurley / No 10 Downing Street, Wikimedia commons.