Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of Google Classroom and YouTube within schools on children.

The department aims to harness the benefits of digital tools to enhance learning, while placing robust safeguards at the heart of our policies. By working in partnership with educators, parents, industry experts and researchers, we are shaping a digital education landscape that prioritises evidence-based practice, inclusivity, and the best interests of children and young people.

We recognise that the wide variety of technological services used in schools, including but not limited to Google products and services, can provide both opportunities and risks for children. As set out in our core guidance, technology plays an important role in broad, rich learning experiences in classrooms across the country, and it is essential that children learn to use technology confidently and safely, so they are prepared for a rapidly evolving world of work.

Equally, we understand concerns about excessive screen use and agree that unmonitored or unlimited personal use can carry risks and recognise that we must get the balance right.

Schools are responsible for safeguarding, including ensuring appropriate filtering and monitoring systems and compliance with data protection.