Consultation outcome

Narrowing the digital divide in schools and colleges

• From: Department for Education
• Published: 21 March 2025
• Last updated: 16 July 2025 — See all updates

Applies to England

This consultation has concluded

Read the full outcome

Narrowing the digital divide in schools and colleges consultation response

PDF, 847 KB, 48 pages

Detail of outcome

A summary of responses received and the government’s response to the consultation and next steps.

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Original consultation

Summary

We’re seeking your views on proposals for narrowing the digital divide in schools and colleges.

This consultation was held on another website.

This consultation ran from
9:30am on 21 March 2025 to 11:59pm on 23 May 2025

Consultation description

This consultation outlines the Department for Education’s long-term vision for narrowing the digital divide in schools and colleges, focusing on proposals for the future of the digital and technology standards. It covers 3 key aims: 

• prioritising essential technology infrastructure
• managing technology risks
• harnessing technology opportunities

To inform future policy development, the document also seeks to gather evidence on:

• the sector’s readiness to meet 6 core standards
• barriers faced in meeting standards
• support required to meet standards
• examples of best practice
• evidence gaps

Your views will help refine the approach and ensure all students benefit from the opportunities that technology offers.

Published 21 March 2025

Last updated 16 July 2025 + show all updates

1. 16 July 2025

   Added the consultation response.

2. 21 March 2025

   First published.