Two Thirds of 16–17 Year Olds Using AI: Kingswood Makes It Part of the Curriculum

More than half (56%) of children aged 8–17 in the UK now use AI, according to the latest research from Ofcom, with that figure rising to two-thirds of 16–17-year-olds. Children are using AI for learning, creativity and everyday tasks, making the ability to understand and use the technology responsibly an increasingly important skill. Recognising the growing role of AI in education, Kingswood has launched Digital Futures, a new digital skills and AI literacy curriculum designed to give pupils the practical skills and understanding they need to use technology confidently and responsibility.


Digital Futures is now built into the curriculum for pupils in Years 8 and 9, with a series of self-guided modules available for pupils in Years 10 and 11. The curriculum goes beyond teaching pupils how to use technology, encouraging them to create with digital tools, think critically about the information they encounter, understand how artificial intelligence works and use it safely and responsibly.

In Year 8, pupils develop core digital and AI skills, including how to communicate professionally online, write effective AI prompts and check whether information produced by AI is accurate. They explore how misinformation spreads, how algorithms can influence what they see online and how their digital footprint can affect their online identity.

In Year 9, pupils explore AI in more depth, learning how AI systems work and how to recognise AI-generated images, videos and other content. They consider the impact of AI on society, including questions around ethics, jobs, power and accountability, while developing practical skills in data, video, audio and digital design.

In Years 10 and 11, pupils can continue their learning through self-guided modules covering areas such as using AI effectively for study, spotting AI-generated content, staying safe online and considering the ethical questions around AI. They also explore how AI could shape future careers and complete a final project as they progress through the course.

Gareth Edgell, Head of Computer Science at Kingswood, said: 'AI is already a part of everyday life for many young people, so it is important that pupils understand how to use it safely and effectively. Digital Futures gives them the chance to explore how these tools work, where they can be useful and where they have limitations, while continuing to develop the core digital and problem-solving skills they need.'

Rachel Mcllwaine, Deputy Head (Academic) at Kingswood, said: 'AI is changing the way young people learn, work and communicate, and education needs to keep pace with that change. Digital Futures is about preparing pupils for a world in which AI will be part of their lives, while ensuring they remain curious, independent thinkers who can question information, form their own views and make informed decisions.'

September 2026