AI is Revolutionising Teaching – But Are Schools Ready?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming education, providing teachers with tools to reduce workloads, streamline lesson planning, and improve work-life balance. A recent survey by Twinkl, which gathered insights from over 6,500 UK teachers, highlights the rapid uptake of AI in schools. However, while teachers are embracing AI, many feel they lack the necessary training and support.

AI Adoption in Schools is Accelerating

Twinkl’s survey found that 60% of teachers are already using AI for work-related tasks – a substantial increase from previous years. In 2023, just 30% of teachers had used generative AI, rising to 48% in 2024. This latest figure suggests AI is now a mainstream tool in schools.

Furthermore, teachers are not just experimenting with AI – they are using it regularly:

• 44% use AI weekly

• 23% use it daily

These findings are reflected in a Schools Week article, which explores how teachers are incorporating AI into lesson planning, marking, and administrative work.

The Key Benefits of AI for Teachers

One of AI’s biggest advantages is its ability to save teachers time. The Twinkl survey found that:

• 88% of frequent AI users say it reduces their workload by up to five hours per week.

• 3% of teachers claim AI saves them over ten hours a week!

Teachers are primarily using AI for:

✅ Generating lesson content (e.g. worksheets, slides)

✅ Assisting with lesson planning

✅ Report writing

✅ Marking and grading

✅ Providing CPD (continuous professional development)

Twinkl’s AI Report Writer tool alone has been used by over 72,000 teachers. This demonstrates a strong demand for AI-powered solutions that help educators manage their workloads more efficiently.

A Lack of Training and Guidance

Despite AI’s clear benefits, a major concern remains: most teachers lack the necessary training to use AI effectively.

• 76% of teachers have received no training or substantial guidance from their school.

• Only 19% believe AI is sufficiently regulated.

While the UK government has highlighted AI’s potential to “personalise lessons and reduce paperwork” in its AI Opportunities Action Plan, the lack of clear policies and training leaves many educators feeling uncertain about how best to use AI in the classroom.

What This Means for Education Suppliers and EdTech Companies

For companies supplying products and services to schools, including EdTech providers, the rapid adoption of AI presents both opportunities and challenges.

Opportunities:

📈 Growing Market for AI Solutions – With over half of teachers already using AI, demand for AI-powered teaching resources, automation tools, and assessment solutions is rising.

📊 AI-Driven Efficiency – Schools are looking for ways to reduce teacher workload. Suppliers that can demonstrate how their products save time and improve outcomes will be well-positioned.

🛠️ Training & Support Gaps – With 76% of teachers lacking AI training, there is an urgent need for professional development, CPD courses, and AI implementation support. Companies that offer training alongside their products could gain a competitive edge.

Challenges:

⚖️ Regulation and Trust – Only 19% of teachers believe AI is sufficiently regulated. Transparency and ethical AI practices will be crucial for building trust with schools.

📚 Integration with Existing Systems – Schools need AI solutions that work alongside their current platforms (MIS, LMS, assessment tools). EdTech companies should prioritise seamless integration to ensure adoption.

🔎 Demonstrating Impact – Schools are under pressure to justify their spending. Suppliers should provide case studies, testimonials, and measurable impact data to support their offerings.

The Road Ahead

The education sector is at a turning point. AI is already changing how teachers work, and this shift will only accelerate. But without the right training, policies, and support, teachers risk being left to navigate this transformation alone.

For education suppliers and EdTech companies, now is the time to develop AI solutions that address real classroom challenges, while also helping schools build confidence in their use of AI.

The message is clear: teachers are ready for AI – but they need the right support to make it work for them.