Guidance published: 24 September 2026
Scope: England
Reviewed: 28 September 2026
The Department for Education has launched a four-year, £24 million EdTech Testbed Programme covering more than 1,000 schools and colleges.
The programme will examine whether education technologies, including generative AI tools and practices, improve learner outcomes, reduce workload or increase inclusion. Its first stage will conduct up to 100 rapid evaluations. The Education Endowment Foundation will then invest £7 million in up to 15 randomised controlled trials or other rigorous evaluations of the most promising approaches.
This announcement does not show that any particular AI product improves learning. It creates an evidence pipeline intended to establish what works, for whom and under what conditions. Findings and practical guidance will be published as the programme develops.
Recruitment of schools, colleges and suppliers will begin in phases during the 2026–27 academic year. For education leaders, the programme may eventually provide stronger evidence for procurement decisions; participation opportunities will include evaluations and an EdTech Testbed Network.
Primary source: DfE EdTech Testbed Programme guidance.