But my ambition for learners does not stop here. I want our learners to go further than just using the tools and infrastructure that we have made available. I want them to move from being users of technology to being creative authors. Learners’ ability to write code is a key aspect of that ambition and is far broader than just using technology. It is about problem solving, being creative, and doing things in a different and fun way. Being able to code cuts across so many subject areas and so many exciting careers, and has the ability to open up new opportunities for young people and teachers. Next week, Deputy Presiding Officer, I will be announcing plans for how we are going further to support our learners to develop coding skills in and around the classroom. I will be setting out what Welsh Government will be doing, working with the regional education consortia, universities, businesses, and the third sector to expand the network of code clubs in every part of Wales. The approach will focus on support for teachers, closer engagement between schools and creative partners, and a stronger role on parental engagement.

I’d like to finish this update by fulfilling another of the OECD’s recommendations for education in Wales, and that is being better at celebrating our successes. Our approach was recently described by Microsoft as ‘world leading’, and that we are ‘leading the charge’ by threading digital competence throughout the curriculum. Next week, I will be speaking to 350 teachers at the national digital learning event and awards to continue to celebrate the current best practice in our schools. This is an ambitious, exciting, and innovative agenda, where we can be proud that Wales is leading the way for our teachers and for our learners.