Artificial Intelligence (AI) is already reshaping the way we live and work – and it’s starting to impact classrooms too. Used well, it can support you to save time, personalise learning and reach every pupil more effectively. But it also raises questions about safety, ethics, and what this means for the future of the profession.
That’s why the Department for Education (DfE), in collaboration with Chiltern Learning Trust and the Chartered College of Teaching, has published new guidance and training to help you and your colleagues feel confident in using AI in ways that are safe, effective and rooted in professional values.
These materials are completely free and available now on www.gov.uk. Whether you’re just starting to explore AI or already experimenting with new tools, they’ve been created with your needs in mind.
Practical training, tailored to the classroom
The resources include self-led training, explainer videos, classroom examples and guidance to support you in making informed, ethical choices about using AI in your setting. They’re designed for use in schools and colleges – whether you’re in the early years, secondary or further education – and can be used by individuals or as part of whole-school CPD.
Once you’ve completed the training, you can also choose to take a certified multiple-choice assessment through the Chartered College of Teaching. Passing the assessment counts as credit towards Chartered Teacher Status, a professional accreditation that recognises your expertise and commitment to excellent teaching.
So not only are you developing your knowledge and practice, you’ll gain recognition for it too.
Insights from across the profession
Alongside the DfE materials, the Chartered College of Teaching has also published a special edition of Impact – our peer-reviewed journal that shares research and practice written by teachers, leaders and education experts.
This special issue brings together a wide range of voices and explores the real-world impact of AI in classrooms, from early years to post-16. It’s been created for you – to help you reflect, discuss and take the next step with confidence.
In addition to the journal, we’ve published a growing collection of videos, audio interviews and written case studies showing how AI is being used by teachers like you to reduce workload, improve planning, and enhance learning outcomes for all pupils.
Themes explored in the materials include:
- Using AI to enhance teaching and learning
- Supporting pupils with SEND through AI tools
- Helping students develop critical thinking around AI use
- Understanding what AI means for teacher professionalism
These are issues you’re already thinking about – and the resources are designed to meet you where you are, with practical support and clear guidance that works in your context.
Supporting every stage of your career
Whether you’re an early career teacher or an experienced senior leader, this guidance is for you. If you’re just starting out, it will help you build strong foundations and understand the risks as well as the opportunities. If you’re leading a team or a whole school, it can support strategic decision-making and help you lead with clarity and confidence.
Dr Cat Scutt, Deputy CEO of the Chartered College of Teaching, explains why this is such an important step forward:
“AI has huge potential in education – but it also comes with huge risks. The only way to address the risks and unlock the opportunities is for the education workforce to feel confident and competent in using AI well. These materials are here to support you, your team and your setting to develop that expertise. We’re proud to have contributed to this work and to offer certification that recognises your learning.”
Sufian Sadiq, Director of Teaching School at Chiltern Learning Trust, shared:
“AI presents both promise and challenge for education. These materials help to demystify AI, empowering educators to make informed, ethical decisions in the classroom and across schools. This work will make a real difference to teachers on the ground – helping you use AI with confidence, while keeping people at the heart of the profession.”
What next?
As AI continues to evolve, we know it can sometimes feel hard to keep up – or to know where to start. That’s why we’re here to support you with trusted, research-informed resources you can rely on. You’re part of a profession that’s adapting together – learning, leading and shaping the future of teaching.
We encourage you to explore the training, try it out with your colleagues, and join the conversation about what AI means for you, your pupils and your school community.
And if you want to take things further, why not look into the certification and Chartered Teacher pathway? Because the more confident and skilled you are, the stronger our profession becomes – for the benefit of every child and young person we teach.
Find out more. Visit: chartered.college/safe-and-effective-use-of-ai-in-education/
