There is no doubt that generative AI (GenAI) is emerging as one of the most impactful technologies of this century.
It creates opportunities to support teaching and learning, while helping pupils grow in confidence and develop the skills they will need in a digital world.
At Beachborough Prep, we see AI as an exciting tool, but we also approach it thoughtfully, always guided by what is best for our pupils. AI is there to support teachers’ expertise, not to replace the human connection and creativity at the centre of a Beachborough education.
With this in mind, we caught up with Tom Dimmock, Head of Computing at Beachborough Prep, to explore what AI really is, why it matters, and how digital innovation is being integrated into the curriculum in a way that complements the school’s traditional values.
Hi Tom, can you tell us a bit more about what AI is?
AI in general is a broad concept; it’s the technology that enables computers and machines to simulate human intelligence. The AI most people refer to is generative AI (GenAI) such as Co-Pilot, Gemini and Chat GPT. This form of AI allows users to ask a question or give a prompt, and it then generates a response, something pupils are increasingly encountering in everyday digital life.
GenAI is a fairly new piece of technology and has only been around for about three and a half years. In that short space of time, it has revolutionised how humans and companies work and operate. However, AI has actually been around for a lot longer, Apple’s Siri was launched in 2011, though a lot of people do not think of it as AI, but it is. It can provide and complete tasks quicker than humans can.
Why is it important for schools to engage with AI?
AI is already part of everyday life, whether through search engines, language tools, or educational software. At Beachborough, our responsibility is not to avoid it, but to help pupils understand it sensibly, safely, and ethically, so they can make informed choices about how and when to use it. We see this as part of preparing children for the world they are growing up in.
How are teachers and staff at Beachborough Prep using AI to complement their work?
To benefit pupils directly, staff at Beachborough use tools such as Copilot to support their planning and resource creation, not to replace their professional judgment. For example, AI can help generate lesson ideas, draft worksheets, suggest differentiated activities, or provide starting points for presentations.
However, every piece of content is carefully reviewed, adapted, and refined by our teachers to ensure it is accurate, appropriate, and tailored to our pupils. As the name suggests, it is Co-Pilot, not Auto-Pilot.
Used in this way, it allows staff to spend less time on initial drafting and more time focusing on what really matters: delivering high-quality teaching, adapting lessons to individual pupils, and supporting each child in the classroom.
We also model responsible use for our pupils. By showing how AI can be used thoughtfully and critically, we help children understand that it’s a powerful tool and equip them with the judgement to use it responsibly themselves.
Do you teach pupils how AI works, rather than just using it?
Absolutely. At an age-appropriate level, we teach that AI is designed by humans, that it can be biased or make mistakes, and that it does not “know” or “feel” things in the way people do. This understanding is essential for responsible and confident use. Most AI tools such as Co-Pilot are accessible for users 13 and over, but this doesn’t stop children using some tools. Canva for Education has AI built in for image and video creation and Google search uses AI generated answers as the top hit. So, our pupils have access to it but in a safe and controlled environment.
How does AI link to digital citizenship at Beachborough Prep?
AI education sits alongside lessons on online safety, kindness, ethics, and responsibility. Pupils learn that just because technology can do something, it doesn’t always mean it should. These conversations are an important part of helping children develop sound judgement, digital maturity and respect for themselves and others online.
How would you summarise Beachborough’s approach to AI?
Our approach is thoughtful, cautious, and pupil centred. We prioritise helping children grow into confident, ethical and curious learners, using AI as a tool, never a shortcut and never a substitute for teaching.
By embracing AI thoughtfully and responsibly, Beachborough Prep continues to prepare pupils not just for today, but for the world they will shape tomorrow.
