AI Opportunities & Preparedness for School Leadership Teams

AI tools are now used informally across UK schools — by students, staff and even third‑party providers. Without a clear strategy, this creates risks around data security, safeguarding, procurement, and compliance. Schools need a confident, practical approach to managing AI that improves efficiency without compromising safety.

This non‑technical programme is designed for school and Trust leaders who want to understand AI’s opportunities, risks and governance requirements. You’ll learn how to build a realistic AI utilisation strategy that strengthens digital resilience, aligns with regulatory expectations, and provides clear oversight of emerging tools used across your organisation. Course delivery will be 4 hours.

Learning Outcomes

You will leave with 2–3 practical take‑aways, such as:

  • A 2–3 step AI implementation plan
  • Key questions to ask third‑party IT and EdTech providers
  • An AI adoption risk‑register template
  • Policy templates (AI use, data protection, and procurement)
  • A governor reporting template or briefing slide deck
  • A sector‑specific framework to diagnose your Trust’s cyber and AI maturity

    Course Agenda

    Across the session, we’ll explore key leadership questions such as:

  • What exactly is AI — and how can it streamline or enhance our processes?
  • How do we prevent AI tools from compromising safety or data protection?
  • Where does our school or Trust sit on the cybersecurity and AI maturity spectrum?
  • What does strong digital leadership look like in 2026?

    The programme is delivered by an AI and cybersecurity analyst currently researching digital resilience in UK schools, drawing on recent interviews with Northeast MAT leaders and real‑world examples of AI use in education settings. The session is rooted in the current school context, with practical guidance you can apply immediately.

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