New research by Accenture reveals that two-thirds of school children think classroom education doesn’t go far enough in teaching them digital skills.

The findings are part of a report covering 5,000 people in the UK. It highlights that digital technologies can help give youngsters between the ages of 12 and 17 more career options.

In good news for the entrepreneurial economy, 44% of respondents said they would run their own business in future thanks to online technologies.

But 65% added that the current curriculum didn’t go far enough in the area.

“It’s good news that young people feel optimistic about the opportunities digital offers, but the fact that they don’t feel they are being fully equipped is worrying,” said Nick Millman, managing director, Accenture Digital.

“After all, they are the next generation of our workforce and the future of British business is in their hands,” he added.

Parents of school children were equally positive about the role digital has to play, with 74% saying it increases opportunities and 78% saying it helps to enhance existing jobs.