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Join the NIoT Pilot Programme: Countering Online Conspiracies and Misinformation in Schools
The National Institute of Teaching (NIoT), with support from the Pears Foundation, and in collaboration with a number of partners, is launching a multi-year pilot programme as part of the new Centre for Digital Information Literacy in Schools (CDILS). This initiative responds to the urgent challenge of online conspiracies, disinformation, and misinformation affecting schools and communities across England.
- Apply By:
- 09 January 2026
We are inviting schools to join us in shaping and testing practical solutions that will:
- Equip teachers, leaders, and governors with the knowledge, confidence, and tools to address misinformation and conspiracy beliefs in the classroom.
- Embed critical thinking, psychological insight, and media literacy into everyday teaching and school leadership.
- Build a generation of educators ready to lead with clarity and resilience in the digital age.
If you’d like to stay informed about our work in this area, sign up here for updates.
If you’re interested in taking part in the actual research pilot, please read on for more details and how to apply.
Who can apply?
- All schools in England are welcome, with a particular focus on those serving disadvantaged communities.
- We encourage applications from schools interested in developing staff expertise in media literacy, critical thinking, and safeguarding against misinformation.
- Schools willing to engage in feedback and evaluation activities as part of the pilot.
Please note: Initial pilots will begin in Summer 2026.
What will the pilot involve?
- Access to new, research-informed training and resources for teachers at all career stages (trainees, Early Career Teachers (ECTs), middle/senior leaders, mentors, teaching assistants, governors).
- Participation in national training, leadership qualifications, and online learning modules.
- Opportunities to shape classroom resources and public engagement campaigns (including podcasts and media).
- Collaboration with NIoT and sector partners to ensure the programme meets real school needs.
- Engagement in evaluation activities to measure impact and inform national rollout.
Why get involved?
- Teachers are on the front line of a new and urgent challenge: helping young people navigate a world shaped by misinformation and conspiracy theories. Too often, they do so without the tools or training they need. This pilot is your school’s opportunity to help lead systemic change, ensuring every educator is equipped to support students with confidence and clarity.
Deadline to apply:
Please submit your Expression of Interest by Friday, 9th January 2026, to be considered for the first phase of the pilot.
Use this form to register your school’s interest and help shape the future of digital information literacy in education.