Generally speaking, we try and stay away from topics that are likely to cause arguments; topics where there are strong points made from various different angles.

However, as experienced ICT suppliers for schools, sometimes we feel it’s important to highlight certain discussions, so to ensure they reach as wide of an audience as they possibly can.

And one such discussion is that around the potential impact not investing in ICT in schools could have on our future economy.

At present, ICT is taught in schools and it has been for many years now. When you’re an ICT pupil, you’ll learn a whole array of different skills, from word processing through to basic spreadsheet formulae.

Whilst there’s no doubt such things are fantastic, they’re not only particularly basic by today’s ICT standards, but to a certain extent, they’re outdated. Today’s pupils have grown up with ICT and more often than not, they know how to use the basic tools a programme such as Microsoft Word offers before they even get to school.

Although you might not think this is an important point itself, think about the impact it could have on businesses over the coming few years if nothing changes.

ICT requirements in business are growing and developing considerably. Not only are more ICT professionals needed, but it’s almost becoming a necessity that we all have at least a great, basic knowledge of ICT.

As pupils aren’t being taught this at present, it means businesses aren’t going to have a workforce that can meet their requirements.

What’s more, it’s highly likely there’ll soon be a skills shortage for specialist ICT knowledge, as pupils aren’t being encouraged to pursue ICT careers from a young age – and when there’s a skills shortage, although it does mean the professionals can essentially name their salary, it also means many organisations are going to have to go without people – or persons – to meet their needs.

When this happens, it can so easily affect their entire business to the extent that they don’t become the success they can be and therefore can’t contribute to the economy in the way the country needs.

We feel passionate about ICT in schools and thoroughly enjoy developing and implementing systems in an education environment.

Knowing that our younger generations are going to be key to our country’s success, we therefore feel it’s imperative that, at the very least, a more in-depth ICT curriculum is looked to be offered in schools, as only this way can we feel confident as a country that our businesses will have access to the skilled workforce they need.