The Framework

The Quantum-Safe Futures for Schools Framework

The framework proposes five interconnected domains that schools can use to prepare learners for a future shaped by quantum technologies and emerging digital systems.

Domain 01

Quantum Literacy

What should every learner know about quantum technologies?

A developmental progression from pattern and probability thinking in primary years through to quantum algorithms and research pathways at university.

Read this domain
01

Quantum Literacy

What should every learner know about quantum technologies?

A developmental progression from pattern and probability thinking in primary years through to quantum algorithms and research pathways at university.

Primary School Focus

  • Patterns
  • Information
  • Probability
  • Simulations
  • Future technologies

Secondary School Focus

  • Qubits
  • Superposition
  • Entanglement
  • Quantum computing
  • Applications
  • Limitations

University Focus

  • Quantum algorithms
  • Simulation
  • Industry applications
  • Research pathways
02

Quantum-Safe Security

How will future societies maintain digital trust?

Digital trust taught as a continuum: from secrets and passwords, through public key cryptography, to post-quantum standards and critical infrastructure.

Primary School Focus

  • Passwords
  • Digital citizenship
  • Secrets
  • Trust

Secondary School Focus

  • Cryptography
  • RSA
  • Public and private keys
  • HTTPS
  • MFA
  • Quantum threats

University Focus

  • Post-Quantum Cryptography
  • NIST Standards
  • Secure systems
  • Critical infrastructure
03

Emerging Technology Futures

How will future learners work with intelligent technologies?

Learners encounter intelligent, simulated and automated systems as connected futures rather than isolated technologies.

Topics

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Quantum Computing
  • Digital Twins
  • Robotics
  • Automation
  • Human-AI Collaboration
  • Simulation Technologies
04

STEM Pathways and Careers

What future opportunities should schools prepare learners for?

A career explorer connecting classroom capability to the technical, research and governance roles a quantum-safe economy will require.

Featured Careers

  • Cybersecurity Specialist
  • Quantum Engineer
  • FPGA Engineer
  • Embedded Systems Engineer
  • Data Scientist
  • AI Specialist
  • Cryptographer
  • Systems Engineer
  • STEM Educator
  • Technology Policy Advisor
  • Governance Specialist
Career explorer

Security

Cybersecurity Specialist

Defends systems, data and people against evolving digital threats.

School foundations

Digital systemsNetworksEthicsProblem solving

Typical pathway

Secondary IT / cyber electives → cyber degree or apprenticeship → SOC or security engineering

05

Responsible Innovation

How can we innovate responsibly?

Ethics, governance and resilience treated as core technical literacy rather than an afterthought to innovation.

Themes

  • Governance
  • Ethics
  • Safety
  • Digital Trust
  • Inclusion
  • Risk
  • Sustainability
  • Resilience