Future of Work: Why Digital Skills Matter More Than Ever

Future of Work: Why Digital Skills Matter More Than Ever

We talk a lot about preparing pupils for “the real world”—but what does that actually look like in 2025 and beyond?

A major UK report—the multi-year Pissarides Review into the Future of Work and Wellbeing—has given us a clearer picture. One of its most striking findings? A large and growing increase in job adverts that mention IT and data skills.

In short: the future of work is digital, and the demand is rising fast.

💼 What’s Changing in the Job Market?

The Pissarides Review found that IT and data-related skills are appearing in far more job listings now than even just a few years ago. From finance to retail, healthcare to construction, digital literacy is becoming a baseline—not a bonus.

It’s not just coding jobs either. Roles in admin, marketing, teaching, and logistics now routinely ask for:

• Data analysis

• Digital collaboration tools

• Basic programming

• IT troubleshooting

• Cyber awareness

These are no longer niche skills. They’re core workplace competencies.

🧠 Why This Matters for Schools and Educators

As educators, we have a responsibility to prepare pupils not just for exams—but for the working world they’re stepping into. And right now, that world is being shaped by technology faster than most curriculums can keep up.

At Heart Teaching, we’re seeing more and more schools asking for teachers and support staff who can integrate digital tools, data literacy, and tech confidence into the learning experience.

This doesn’t mean turning every lesson into a coding class. It means:

• Embedding digital literacy across the curriculum

• Giving pupils opportunities to work with data

• Building confidence with common software tools

• Encouraging curiosity about how technology affects their world

💡 Spotlight on BT’s Work Ready Programme

One standout initiative helping schools bridge this gap is BT Group’s Work Ready programme. Designed for pupils aged 11–14, it offers free, curriculum-linked resources and interactive sessions that bring digital skills to life.

The programme includes:

• Virtual bootcamps and in-person workshops with BT professionals

• Lesson modules on AI, cybersecurity, healthcare, and the Internet of Things

• Real-world projects like building chatbots or designing digital awareness campaigns

• Opportunities for students to meet role models working in techBT+2BT+2BT+2

These sessions don’t just teach technical skills—they also develop critical thinking, empathy, and teamwork, helping students see themselves in the digital workforce.BT

Schools can register for upcoming events or access free classroom materials at BT’s Work Ready hub.

👩‍🏫 What Can Schools Do Now?

Here are a few ways schools can get ahead:

1. Start small: Use data in everyday lessons—like graphing in science or budgeting in maths.

2. Upskill staff: Invest in CPD around digital learning and data skills.

3. Partner locally: Link up with local businesses or colleges offering insight into tech careers.

4. Listen to students: Many already engage with tech outside school. Bring their interests into the classroom.

💬 A Final Thought

The Pissarides Review confirms what many of us already feel: the world of work is shifting—and fast. But that doesn’t mean schools are behind. It just means we need to adapt intentionally, equip our pupils with digital confidence, and stay connected to where the job market is heading.

At Heart Teaching, we’re passionate about placing educators who embrace that change—who are not just teaching today’s curriculum, but preparing tomorrow’s thinkers, makers, and leaders.

Let’s get our young people ready—not just to survive in the future of work, but to thrive.