Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, how many young people are undertaking training in AI.

Digital and artificial intelligence (AI) skills are essential for young people to succeed in education, employment and to engage effectively in a digital world. Following the recommendations of the independent Curriculum and Assessment Review, we are strengthening digital education. The computing curriculum will remain the main route for teaching digital literacy, with clearer guidance on what pupils should learn. We are also considering how digital content should be included within other subjects and will work with experts to assess viability.

To equip pupils for a digitally enabled world, we will replace the computer science GCSE with a broader computing GCSE and incorporate AI, data science, and topics such as bias into the curriculum in an age-appropriate way. We are also exploring a potential Level 3 qualification in data science and AI. Draft proposals will be subject to public consultation later this year.

Evidence on the benefits and risks of students using generative AI is still emerging, so we will continue to build evidence and support the education sector to use AI safely and effectively. Schools using pupil-facing generative AI must carefully follow legal responsibilities, as outlined in our Generative AI policy paper.

Student numbers for a range of approved Level 2 and 3 subjects can be found within educational statistics here: https://explore-education-statistics.service.gov.uk/.

The actions we are taking forward are expected to increase the teaching of digital literacy and AI within the curriculum and encourage more young people to consider digital qualifications, bolstering the future pipeline of talent.