Silicon Playgrounds
A digital education initiative providing computer access and training to disadvantaged youth
Applies to: England and Wales
Key Features
- •Digital education centres in deprived areas
- •Computer training for young entrepreneurs
- •Digital dividend for higher education fees
- •Foster new generation of entrepreneurs
Consultation Process
Public Consultation
Period: 1 September 2011 to 30 November 2011
Responses received: 892
Mixed responses with education sector broadly supportive but concerns raised about digital divide
Key Stakeholders Consulted
- • Department for Education
- • British Educational Suppliers Association
- • National Association of Head Teachers
- • Microsoft UK
- • Google UK
- • Tech UK
Focus Groups
Sessions conducted: 8
Total participants: 124
Key findings:
- • Teachers require significant training support
- • Infrastructure concerns in deprived areas
- • Strong student enthusiasm for programme
Impact Assessment
£200 million initial investment with projected £500 million return through digital skills development
Estimated reach of 250,000 disadvantaged young people in first phase
Digital Dividend Programme
Profits stored as digital dividend towards higher education fees
Policy Information
Peter Mannion
education
Mannion's Workhouse Web
Documentation
Reference ID: SILICON-PLAYGROUNDS
Mentions: 18 references
This policy document is published under the Freedom of Information Act 2000. For enquiries regarding this policy, contact policy.unit@dosac.gov.uk
Classification: OFFICIAL | Document Reference: POL-SILICON-PLAYGROUNDS-2024
