School leaders across the Liverpool City Region are set to benefit from free artificial intelligence (AI) training as part of a major education programme aimed at helping schools use the technology safely and responsibly.
The Liverpool City Region has been selected for the largest regional rollout of The Big AI Project, an education initiative offering headteachers, academy trust leaders and other education professionals access to specialist training, practical resources and expert guidance.
The announcement was made during the third annual Liverpool City Region AI Summit, highlighting the region’s continued focus on digital skills and emerging technology.
Helping schools understand artificial intelligence
Developed by teachers and school leaders through the Oasis Big Education Institute, The Big AI Project aims to give education professionals a better understanding of both the opportunities and challenges associated with artificial intelligence.
Rather than promoting particular AI platforms or products, the programme takes a technology-neutral approach, allowing schools to make informed decisions about how AI could support teaching, learning and everyday operations.
A key focus is ensuring that teachers remain central to education as schools explore how new technology can be introduced safely and effectively.
Councillor George Woodward, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Cabinet Member for Education, said:
“Artificial intelligence is already changing the way we live and work. It’s vital that schools have the knowledge and confidence to use these tools safely and effectively.
“By bringing The Big AI Project to the Liverpool City Region, we’re helping educators prepare for the future while ensuring teachers remain at the centre of the learning experience.
“This programme strengthens our position as a national leader in responsible AI adoption and digital inclusion.”
Free training and practical support for school leaders
Through the programme, school leaders will be able to access training sessions and resources designed to help them understand how artificial intelligence can be used ethically and responsibly within education.
The initiative will also support schools in considering the potential risks of AI, helping staff make decisions that prioritise the needs of pupils and teachers.
Ali Gellett, Senior Projects Lead at the Oasis Big Education Institute, welcomed the partnership.
“The Big AI Project is delighted to be working in partnership with Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and its schools. The strength of the partnership is our mutual desire for children, young people and staff to approach AI safely, ethically and responsibly.
“We are excited to see how delivering The Big AI Project for all schools in the region will transform the approach to AI, setting a global precedent for place-based transformation and effective AI use.”
Building on existing AI projects in Liverpool City Region schools
The latest announcement follows earlier work to introduce artificial intelligence into education across the Liverpool City Region.
A previous AI pilot involving primary schools has already been completed, with the initiative subsequently expanded to 20 secondary schools across the area.
The Big AI Project will build on this work by providing school leaders with further opportunities to develop their understanding of the technology.
The programme also forms part of the Combined Authority’s wider ambitions to improve digital inclusion and ensure that residents, businesses and public services can benefit from technological developments.
How school leaders can access the training
Headteachers, trust leaders and education professionals interested in taking part can book places on the free training sessions through the Oasis Big Education Institute.
Further information and booking details are available through the Oasis Big Education Institute Events programme here.
