Artificial intelligence (AI) in schools checklist

The aim of this policy checklist on AI is to support reps negotiating the introduction of AI with their employer or school.

Published: 08/05/2025

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Our model policies and policy checklists are designed to assist NEU reps in negotiating the best employment policies on behalf of our members.

Reps should consult members before agreeing new policies or changes to existing policies and should not agree policies that do not meet member expectations, any statutory requirements and NEU minimums.

Policy checklists can be used as a guide for reps when communicating with members over whether a proposed policy is acceptable.

Reps should always seek to work collaboratively with other unions.

If a policy is unacceptable, members should consider a collective response that may include taking industrial action. For further advice contact your district or branch.

Artificial intelligence in education

Artificial intelligence (AI) in education is a complex and controversial issue. For each potential use, there are also substantial risks and limitations.

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Artificial intelligence (AI) in schools checklist

Consultation and explanation

There should be consultation with staff and their unions before AI is introduced, as well as ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure it is delivering benefits for teaching and learning.

Has the employer explained the reasons for introducing any new AI product and how it will benefit teaching and learning?
Have staff and unions been consulted on the new technology?

If members have concerns about any aspect of the implementation, there should be a discussion of how this can best be expressed collectively.

Workload

New technology and AI should not lead to an increase in workload and the impact of new technologies should be monitored to ensure this is not the case. Any reductions in workload that are achieved should not be replaced with new work in other areas.

Has the employer carried out a workload impact assessment of existing or new technologies?

CPD and training

Your employer should provide adequate CPD for you to use a new tool before and during its use, but training requirements should not add to your overall workload.

Has there been an opportunity to test or use the tools before they are introduced, to identify training requirements and see whether they will have an impact?

Privacy and data protection

The employer must ensure the privacy of staff learners and AI systems must comply with data protection and privacy legislation and regulations. The employer should also provide clear guidance and training on data protection in relation to AI tools or systems that it provides, recommends or allows to be used.

Has the way the AI uses data been explained in a comprehensive way that makes it clear to staff, students and parents how their data is being used?
If there is any opposition to this, are all parties clear about their rights?

Ongoing monitoring and staff input

AI or any new technology should be evaluated over time, to ensure it is working well, delivering benefits to educators and learners without causing an increase in workload. Clear lines of accountability should be established to ensure that staff and students can raise concerns about how technology is working and being used.