Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Remote Education: Self-isolating Pupils

20 October 2020 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Siobhain McDonagh Lab Mitcham and Morden

Education

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Siobhain McDonagh raised concerns about remote education: self-isolating pupils in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • The digital divide was highlighted as a significant issue, affecting over a million children in the UK due to lack of devices or internet access.
  • The government committed to providing over 160 million for laptops and tablets to support remote education.
  • The Department is piloting an approach with telecoms companies to provide additional free data for disadvantaged families.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Siobhain McDonagh Lab Mitcham and Morden

The digital divide exacerbated by the pandemic, with many children unable to access online learning due to lack of devices or internet. The speech highlighted the disparity between those who could afford technology versus those struggling economically, affecting over a million children in the UK. Schools were overwhelmed trying to provide remote education without sufficient resources, leading to uneven outcomes and increased educational inequality. The speaker urged for more government support and action.

Other contributors (1)
  • [Not provided]

    Agreed with Siobhain McDonagh on the challenges faced by disadvantaged children due to lack of access to technology.

Government Response

Nick Gibb

The Minister acknowledged the digital divide and committed to providing remote education support, including over £160 million for laptops and tablets. He also mentioned the distribution of 4G routers, expert technical support, training, and funding for Oak National Academy. The Department is piloting an approach with telecoms companies to provide additional free data for disadvantaged families. Schools are receiving tailored support through edtech demonstrator schools and webinars. Minister emphasised that £1 billion catch-up fund is available to mitigate pandemic impacts on education.

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