2026: a Pivotal Year for AI in Schools

Across Australia, schools are focusing their attention on developing clear, accountable policies to harness artificial intelligence (AI) as a powerful tool for teaching, learning and administration. The challenge schools face is now less about whether to adopt, but how.

Australian schools are engaging with AI at very different stages; some are still in the exploratory phase while others have set clear policies, built staff capability and chosen AI tools that genuinely enhance learning and productivity.

They have made choices that will shape educational standards, innovation and preparedness for the decade ahead. For example, Kinross Wolaroi School in Orange, Macarthur Anglican School in southwest Sydney and The McDonald College in North Strathfield are among schools adopting AI tools and policies that maintain learning integrity and promote shared understanding across their communities.

The leadership team at Sydney Grammar School in Darlinghurst has made AI a focus. They are shaping the use of AI by centring policy and guidance for AI around the school's values, clarifying boundaries, and communicating the school's decisions clearly.

While approaches and boundaries will be different for each school community, clarity is essential in building confidence among staff, students and families.

AI use has become less about frequency and more about professional judgement and purpose. As AI tools become more intuitive and embedded into everyday life, judgement will matter more than technical ability. Awareness, rather than proficiency, is becoming paramount.

‘AI literacy’ must therefore be replaced by ‘AI awareness’ - when (and why) to use AI, how to use it effectively and what pitfalls to look for. Many teachers use AI to support their planning, feedback and differentiation while staying firmly in control.

For example, teachers and administration staff at Arrahman College in southwest Sydney are exploring how AI can assist in personalising instruction, without handing over professional judgement or day-to-day decision-making.

Some schools are also engaging with their students to learn how they are already using AI, knowing that student experiences vary considerably across schools and year levels. Schools are demonstrating to their students how AI can enhance their learning and reflection, and are helping them to identify when AI is supporting, rather than replacing, their thinking.

There is no single pathway or timeline to the impactful and ethical use of AI that will be right for every school. Schools need to move at their own pace while ensuring the emphasis remains on deliberate, informed practice rather than speed or uniformity.

But there is no time to lose; AI technology is advancing faster than traditional systems can adapt. Schools that hesitate risk widening gaps in achievement, relevance and opportunity.