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Artificial intelligence (AI) use in schools

Understand what artificial intelligence is, how it's used in schools, and what schools and trusts need to consider to make sure it’s being used safely and responsibly.

Last reviewed on 20 July 2026
School types: All•School phases: All•Ref: 45209
Contents
  1. What is AI?
  2. Why do I need to know about AI?
  3. How AI is used in schools
  4. Make sure AI is being used safely
  5. Don't enter personal data into a tool without approval
  6. Prevent misuse with policies, procedures and monitoring
  7. Ofsted won't directly inspect the quality of AI tools
  8. Make sure your leaders keep you informed 

This article is a beginner’s guide to artificial intelligence (AI). This technology, although it has been around for a while, evolves quickly and can be daunting if you’re not using it in your everyday life.

Don’t worry – you don’t need to know how AI works in detail, or use it yourself, to be able to hold leaders to account. This article will give you the basic information that you need to be able to ask questions about AI use with confidence.

What is AI?

AI isn’t new

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the use of computer systems to solve problems and make decisions. It’s already a part of everyday life – you may have come across it in the form of predictive texting, talking to Siri on your phone or using route-planning apps.

What is generative