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Why we must include support staff in AI planning and procurement

Artificial intelligence Support staff Trade unions
Everyone is talking about how AI will transform teaching and learning, but perhaps the biggest potential for impact will be on administrative functions and school support staff, says Kate Jones
Transformation: AI will transform school administration, scheduling, timetabling, resource management, financial operations, attendance monitoring, and even recruitment and staff evaluations - Adobe Stock

As artificial intelligence rapidly makes its way into our schools, there is much excitement about its potential to transform education.

The government is actively exploring how AI might improve teacher workload and enhance educational outcomes through various initiatives – from hackathons to focus groups, from calls for evidence to consultations with trade unions (DfE, 2025).

But while much of the discourse centres on students, learning outcomes, and teachers, school support staff are overlooked.

This oversight isn't just an inconvenience – it is a fundamental flaw in how we are approaching one of the biggest technological transformations our schools have ever seen.

No significant technological change should ever be introduced into a workplace without meaningful consultation with all affected staff.

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