Success with AI

Andrew Hall

 

How AI is Changing Safeguarding

What DSLs Need to Know

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming education, bringing both opportunities and challenges for designated safeguarding leads (DSLs) in England. Schools are already experimenting with AI-powered tools to support teaching, learning, and administration, but the safeguarding implications of AI remain an urgent area for discussion. For DSLs, understanding AI is no longer optionalā€”it is essential.

Use AI to save time for the human touch!

AI can be a powerful ally in safeguarding work. By automating routine tasks such as drafting policies, summarising reports, or generating training materials, AI tools like ChatGPT can help DSLs reclaim time for the human-centred aspects of safeguardingā€”the conversations, interventions, and decision-making that make a real difference. Used wisely, AI can enhance digital resilience education, support online safety strategies, and even help schools anticipate emerging safeguarding risks.

AI is a safeguarding concern

However, AI is also creating new safeguarding concerns. Generative AI tools are making it easier than ever for young people to access inappropriate content, generate harmful materials, or be exposed to misinformation. The rise of deepfake technology and AI-generated grooming tactics presents a serious challenge for child protection professionals. In addition, concerns around data privacy, bias, and digital consent mean that schools must be cautious when integrating AI into their safeguarding strategies.

So what do schools need to do?

Many DSLs are understandably cautious about AI. Headlines about AI-driven cheating, harmful chatbots, and unregulated data collection make it easy to see AI as a threat rather than a tool. Yet, the reality is that AI is here to stay, and safeguarding professionals need to be proactive in responding to both its risks and its benefits. Schools must ensure that their AI use aligns with data protection regulations, ethical guidelines, and safeguarding policies.

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