The BBC has teamed up with US computer giant Microsoft to provide the technology for the corporation's new digital education service.

Microsoft will work with the BBC to develop video, audio and interactive content for schools over the internet.

The deal will allow the BBC to launch its free digital curriculum service for pupils, teachers and parents.

The service will offer material on a range of subjects with 50% of all content commissioned from external producers.

Microsoft, which won the contract after a competitive tender process, will be working with BBC Technology and US computer company Hewlett Packard over the next three years.

It will oversee the "design and build" phase, using its software technology, while Hewlett Packard will supply hardware and consulting skills.

BBC Technology, which was founded in 2001 to provide products and services for the BBC and other media companies, will give additional support.

The BBC said Microsoft had won the contract because it had "the right mix of technological skills, value for money and commitment to education".

Earlier this month the European Commission gave the BBC the go-ahead to launch the digital curriculum, which will cost £150m over a five-year period.

It will be piloted in 2005 and go live the following year.

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