Artificial Intelligence Tools: Schools

Baroness Bull Excerpts

Monday 26th October 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Smith of Malvern (Lab)]

Yes, of course it is the case, but we need to ensure that we harness the positive opportunities that come from AI and educational technology and avoid the risks—which certainly need to be managed very carefully—in our schools. That is the reason for the breadth of initiatives being taken by the Government. It is the reason for the update of the generative AI product safety standards, which have specific protections relating to cognitive development, emotional and social development, mental health and manipulative design, reflecting areas where children may be particularly vulnerable. I do not believe that there is anybody in this House who does not believe that there are opportunities that AI can bring into our schools for teachers and learners. The Government are working hard to get that balance right.

[Baroness Bull (CB)]

My Lords, alongside their positive role within the education system, many parents and children will choose online and AI tools to support their learning outside of the classroom. My noble friend Lord Tarassenko has pointed out that it is a bit of a minefield. It is difficult for parents to assess which of those tools are likely to be the most efficacious. Are there any plans for the Department for Education to help parents by perhaps rating those tools on their effectiveness in supporting children who have particular educational needs?

[Baroness Smith of Malvern (Lab)]

Once the certification is in place, I suspect that will be broadly available for parents to see. We are already starting the process of developing screen use guidance for five to 18 year-olds, which will gather evidence from experts on how screen use affects children and young people. That will make new, practical evidence-based guidance available for parents in the coming months.