Beyond the Hype: Leading a Theory of Change for AI in Primary Schools

Abstract

There is a perspective that suggests AI is the “silver bullet” that will transform our schools. But how grounded is this in research? As leaders, we must navigate the space between resisting change and uncritically adopting the latest trend.
This session invites leaders to a critical discussion framed around emerging research on Generative AI in primary education settings. We will move beyond the technical aspects of AI to focus on the leadership challenge: How do we create an environment where this technology is explored and evaluated safely?
We will explore three core questions:
1. Pedagogy: Will AI actually deepen learning, or just simulate it?
2. Integrity: How do we maintain the authenticity of the learning design?
3. Strategy: How do we apply a Theory of Change to bring staff and students along on the journey?
Come ready to discuss and debate. While no one has all the answers yet, this session offers a framework for “walking towards the change” to determine how AI can truly serve our learning communities.

Biography

Mr. Ben Witheford

As Principal of Shotover Primary School, Ben Witheford has spent the last decade leading a contemporary greenfield school from inception to maturity. With 28 years in education, his expertise lies in building effective teams, coaching cultures, and authentic curriculum design. A pragmatic leader grounded in reality, Ben is currently applying a Theory of Change framework to his Master’s research, exploring how schools can meaningfully adopt Generative AI without losing the integrity of the learning experience.