An Introduction to AI for Year 2

This week we have been talking about Safer Internet Day with its theme of AI, how it can help us and what we need to be careful about. Year 2 had an assembly with Mr Lang ahead of their lessons on using RileyBot to help with work.  

We began by exploring where children might already encounter AI in everyday life, such as smart speakers, games and devices that respond to voice or text. The focus was not on technology itself, but on understanding how to use it safely, wisely and responsibly. 

Through a live demonstration and discussion, the children learned that AI can be helpful for explaining ideas, giving facts and supporting learning when we are stuck. Just as importantly, we explored its limitations. We discussed that AI can make mistakes, is not a person, does not have feelings and should never be given private information. The key message was clear: AI can help us learn, but trusted adults keep us safe. 

To help reinforce this, the AI helped to create a short safety song, bringing together what we had talked about, reminding them to check important information and always speak to a grown-up if they are unsure. We talked about what we liked about it, what some of our concerns might be and how and if we could spot any mistakes. 

This assembly forms part of our wider approach to digital literacy and innovation, and links directly to the Year 2 introduction to AI lessons taking place this week as we launch RileyBot with the pupils. These sessions will model safe classroom use, structured questioning and appropriate ways to use AI to support learning. 

This work builds on the Year 2 parent webinar held at the start of February, where we outlined our approach to AI in school and how we are introducing it carefully, transparently and in partnership with families. 

Parent challenge: 

Can you spot anything strange in the posters below (made with an AI during the assembly)? The children spotted a few, but can you?