Government Outlines Digitalisation Direction for Foundational Education (Netherlands, June 2026)
The government informed Parliament about digitalisation in foundational education and the development of a national direction plan. The update focuses on safe, equitable and well-governed use of digital technology and AI in schools.
The government informed Parliament about digitalisation in foundational education and the development of a national direction plan. The update focuses on safe, equitable and well-governed use of digital technology and AI in schools.
What Changed?
The government confirmed work with sector organisations and education stakeholders on a coordinated digitalisation plan for primary and secondary education, including issues such as privacy, security, autonomy, accessibility and dependence on technology suppliers.
Old System vs New System
Digitalisation and AI were already present in schools, but governance, supervision and shared direction across foundational education were still developing.
A national direction plan is being prepared to set clearer frameworks for digitalisation in foundational education, with further parliamentary information expected in autumn 2026.
Who Is Affected?
Student Impact
Students may be affected by future rules on safer and more equitable use of digital tools and AI in learning.
Parent / Family Impact
Parents may gain clearer expectations about privacy, safety and responsible technology use in schools.
School / Institution Impact
Schools may need to review digital procurement, cybersecurity, privacy and AI-use policies once the national plan is issued.
Teacher / Staff Impact
Teachers may receive clearer guidance on responsible educational technology and AI use in classrooms.
Key Dates
- 2026-06-25: government letter sent
- autumn 2026: national direction plan expected to be shared with Parliament.
What To Do
- School boards should monitor the autumn 2026 plan and review current digital safety
- procurement and AI policies.
What To Watch Next
The key follow-up will be the autumn 2026 plan and any legal or supervisory powers proposed for digital security in education.
Global Context
The Netherlands is addressing the same challenge faced by many systems: integrating AI and digital tools while protecting privacy, equity and educational autonomy.
Source Record
Source type: Government letter
Source name: House of Representatives of the Netherlands