What is the UK government doing to address concerns about digital homework?

The UK government is tabling an amendment to the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill that will give parents the statutory right to opt out of online homework for their children.

How are other countries responding to the issue of digital homework?

Sweden reversed its classroom digitization program in 2023, while Spain has banned device-based homework in primary schools and set a two-hour maximum per week for tablet use in schools.

What are the main concerns parents have about digital homework?

Parents are worried about the physical harm of dry eyes and deteriorating eyesight, the negative impact on attention spans and learning, and the addictive nature of gamified ed-tech.

Home / Education / UK Moves to Limit Digital Homework, Bring Back Analog Learning

UK Moves to Limit Digital Homework, Bring Back Analog Learning

8 Sep

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Summary

Schools increasingly set work online, leading to more screen time
Parents push for analogue alternatives, citing health and learning concerns
Sweden, Spain ban device-based homework, inspiring UK policy change

UK Moves to Limit Digital Homework, Bring Back Analog Learning

In September 2025, UK schools are grappling with a growing trend of digitizing education, leading to increased screen time for children. Parents are now pushing back, demanding more analog learning alternatives.

The article highlights that just last month, one parent received an email from their child's school about a "personalized, quiz-based learning program" with an "AI-powered tutor." This is a far cry from the days when students were simply issued textbooks. Today, children as young as 5 are being set online homework, and many secondary schools are providing tablets upon enrollment.

Frustrated parents argue that this relentless march towards digitization is harming children's physical and cognitive development. Concerns include deteriorating eyesight, reduced attention spans, and the addictive nature of gamified ed-tech. A recent survey found that over three-quarters of students admitted to using AI tools to complete their homework, raising fears about the impact on critical thinking and writing skills.

Inspired by policy changes in Sweden, which reversed its classroom digitization program in 2023, and Spain's ban on device-based homework in primary schools, the UK government is now taking action. A new amendment to the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill aims to give parents the statutory right to opt out of online homework for their children. Experts believe this move will garner cross-party support, as the issue of children's wellbeing transcends party politics.

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