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Artificial Intelligence (AI) Use Policy

The Alternative Learning Hub (ALH) recognises that artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an increasingly common part of education, work, and daily life. We believe AI can be a valuable educational tool when used thoughtfully, ethically, and appropriately. Our approach is centred around supporting learning, reducing barriers, encouraging independence, and helping students develop the skills needed to engage critically with emerging technologies. This policy outlines how AI may be used within ALH and the expectations surrounding its safe, responsible, and educationally appropriate use. 

 

Educational Philosophy 

At ALH, AI is viewed as a support tool rather than a replacement for teaching, thinking, creativity, or human connection. We recognise that for some learners, particularly neurodivergent students or those experiencing overwhelm, AI tools may help: 

  • reduce barriers to learning 

  • support organisation and planning 

  • assist with written expression 

  • build confidence 

  • scaffold ideas and structure 

  • encourage independent learning 

 

We also recognise the importance of helping students develop critical thinking skills and the ability to question, evaluate, and refine AI-generated content. 

 

Appropriate Uses of AI at ALH 

AI tools may be used within ALH to support: 

  • explanation of concepts 

  • revision and study support 

  • idea generation and brainstorming 

  • planning and structure 

  • vocabulary development 

  • proofreading and editing support 

  • accessibility support 

  • speech-to-text and organisational assistance 

  • differentiated learning materials 

  • low-pressure starting points for reluctant learners 

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Staff may also use AI to assist with: 

  • resource creation 

  • lesson planning 

  • administrative support 

  • accessibility adaptations 

  • generating examples or prompts 

 

All educational content remains subject to professional judgement and review. 

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Expectations for Students 

Students using AI are encouraged to: 

  • use AI critically and responsibly 

  • check and question information provided by AI systems 

  • develop and express their own understanding and ideas 

  • use AI as a support tool rather than a shortcut 

  • seek help where they are unsure about appropriate use 

 

Students should not: 

  • present fully AI-generated work as entirely their own 

  • use AI dishonestly during assessments or examinations 

  • use AI to engage in harmful, inappropriate, or unsafe behaviour 

  • share personal, confidential, or sensitive information with AI systems 

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Staff Responsibilities 

Staff are expected to: 

  • model responsible and ethical AI use 

  • support students in understanding both the benefits and limitations of AI 

  • encourage independent thinking alongside AI-assisted learning 

  • monitor the appropriateness of AI use within educational activities 

  • remain aware that AI systems can sometimes produce inaccurate, biased, or misleading information 

 

Staff should exercise professional judgement at all times when incorporating AI into teaching and learning. 

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Safeguarding and Online Safety 

ALH recognises that AI technologies form part of the wider online landscape and should be approached with appropriate safeguarding awareness. To support student safety: 

  • AI use should take place within an educational context 

  • students should not share personal or sensitive information with AI systems 

  • staff should remain alert to inappropriate or unsafe AI-generated content 

  • concerns relating to safeguarding or online safety should be managed in line with ALH safeguarding procedures 

  • AI systems are not used to make safeguarding decisions. 

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Data Protection, GDPR Compliance, and ICO Membership 

ALH aims to use AI tools responsibly and with absolute consideration for privacy and data protection. 

  • GDPR Compliance: All integration and utilization of AI platforms must remain strictly consistent with ALH data protection obligations and UK GDPR responsibilities. 

  • ICO Membership: In alignment with statutory regulatory standards, ALH holds an active registration and membership status with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) as a data controller. 

  • Data Minimisation: Unnecessary personal data will not be entered into AI systems under any circumstances. Both staff and students are actively instructed to minimise identifiable or sensitive information when using AI tools. 

  • Deployment Review: Where possible, publicly available educational AI tools will be evaluated and used appropriately to ensure user information is treated safely and transparently. 

 

Academic Integrity 

ALH encourages students to engage honestly with their learning. AI should support: 

  • understanding 

  • confidence 

  • accessibility 

  • skill development 

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It should not replace: 

  • critical thinking 

  • genuine engagement 

  • independent learning 

  • authentic student voice 

 

Students will be supported in understanding the difference between appropriate AI assistance and academic dishonesty. 

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Ongoing Review 

AI technologies are evolving rapidly. ALH will continue reviewing its approach to ensure that AI is used in ways that are: 

  • ethical 

  • safe 

  • educationally appropriate 

  • supportive of student wellbeing and accessibility 

This policy will be reviewed regularly as technologies and educational guidance continue to develop. 

 

Policy Review 

  • Reviewed by: Alternative Learning Hub (ALH) 

  • Review frequency: Annual 

  • Next review date: June 2027 

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