Source · Select Committees · Education Committee
Recommendation 14
14
Deferred
Paragraph: 74
Inadequate digital literacy curriculum structure and teacher support negatively impact children's skills.
Conclusion
We welcome the inclusion of digital literacy in the curriculum. However, the curriculum is not structured well enough to keep children safe online. Digital literacy is split across numerous subjects with different focuses and teachers. Teachers must grapple with a topic that is constantly evolving and comprehend numerous guidance documents provided by the Government while often having no specialist knowledge of the topic themselves. As a result, the digital literacy capabilities of children in the UK remain generally poor.
Government Response Summary
The government confirms that guidance and support for digital literacy and online safety are being addressed, citing existing DfE guidance. It also states that further actions regarding online safety content will be determined after the ongoing RSHE review and a new independent Curriculum and Assessment Review, which aims to embed digital skills.
Paragraph Reference:
74
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
Guidance and support for digital literacy and for the embedding of online safety is being addressed. As part of relationships sex and health education (RSHE), pupils are taught about online relationships, the implications of sharing private or personal data (including images) online, harmful content and contact, cyberbullying, an over-reliance on social media and where to get help. To support schools DfE published guidance on teaching online safety in schools in 2023. As part of the RSHE review, the Secretary of State for Education has committed to look carefully at the public consultation responses, engage a wide range of stakeholders, and examine all the evidence before setting out next steps. This will include making sure the content on online safety is right. The government has established an independent Curriculum and Assessment Review, which will seek to deliver a curriculum that ensures children and young people leave compulsory education ready for life and ready for work, building the knowledge, skills and attributes young people need to thrive. This includes embedding digital, oracy and life skills in their learning.