AI, Control and the Next Step for Schools
Following AspiraCloud’s attendance at three Association of Network Managers in Education events this June, the team has returned with a clearer view of the questions, priorities and concerns shaping conversations around AI in schools, trusts, colleges and universities.
Adrian Edgar, CEO of AspiraCloud, attended the East Midlands and West Midlands ANME events, where his presentations were well received and prompted valuable conversations with network managers about the technical realities of AI adoption in education. Matt Dunkin, CIO of AspiraCloud, represented the team at the Northwest event, where the format included short, focused conversations with a wide range of attendees.
AI is on the agenda, but understanding varies
One of the strongest themes from the events was that AI is already part of many school policy discussions, but there remains uncertainty about how it can be introduced safely and practically. Many network managers were aware of the broader debate around AI in education, yet some had not realised that AI capabilities can already exist within controlled platforms used for teaching and learning.
For some schools, the immediate reaction has been to block AI entirely. The conversations at ANME suggested that this response is often driven by understandable concerns around safeguarding, cost, governance and student access. However, it can also mean schools miss the opportunity to explore more managed approaches that provide restrictions, oversight and alignment with existing school policies.
Controlled AI environments are becoming a key discussion point
The discussions highlighted a growing need to move beyond the question of whether AI should be allowed and towards how it can be governed responsibly. For education IT teams, this means considering how AI tools are accessed, which users can use them, what safeguards are in place, and how schools can maintain control while still supporting innovation.
A recurring concern was whether AI would create additional cost or complexity. AspiraCloud’s conversations focused on helping schools understand that the priority should be finding a practical, policy-aligned route forward: one that supports teaching and learning, protects younger students where restrictions are required, and gives IT leaders confidence that AI is being used in a controlled environment.
Continuing the conversation after ANME
At the Northwest event, Matt delivered his presentation four times to different groups of attendees, giving delegates the chance to explore the topic in a focused and practical way. The level of engagement confirmed that education IT leaders are actively looking for guidance on how to approach AI with confidence, rather than simply avoiding it altogether.
Following the events, AspiraCloud will continue discussions with network managers and education IT teams who want to better understand how AI can be introduced responsibly within Microsoft environments. The message from ANME was clear; schools do not need to choose between blocking AI completely and opening access without control. With the right strategy, governance and technical support, they can take a measured approach that reflects their policies, protects their users and supports the future of teaching and learning.