BET becomes first UK Trust to Achieve AiEd Certified Pathfinder Status
Bourne Education Trust (BET) is proud to announce that all schools within the Trust have been awarded AiEd Certified Pathfinder Status by AI in Education, making BET the first UK Trust to receive this recognition across its entire network of schools.
Why this matters now
AI adoption in schools is accelerating, with tools such as ChatGPT and AI-supported learning platforms becoming increasingly common. This shift is reshaping classrooms across the country.
While pupils are often early adopters of these technologies, many teachers report feeling underprepared. That's why we're taking action now. As the world changes rapidly, particularly with the expansion of AI and digital technologies, we recognise our responsibility to prepare both our staff and our learners for the workplaces, opportunities and challenges of the 2030s. This means equipping them with strong academic foundations alongside digital fluency, ethical awareness, creativity and adaptability. These priorities shape our curriculum thinking, our professional development and the way we help schools plan for the future.
Leading through action
Pathfinder Status is awarded to institutions showing early, thoughtful and purposeful engagement with artificial intelligence. For BET, this designation reflects a Trust-wide commitment to responsible, ethical and meaningful AI integration, and our leadership in preparing staff and learners for an AI-enabled future.
As Pathfinder institutions, BET schools are helping shape emerging best practice, demonstrating a willingness to move first, learn boldly and contribute to sector-wide understanding of how AI can support teaching and learning safely, effectively and with integrity.
A strategic approach
Through our partnership with AI in Education, we are delivering structured professional learning that gives staff the confidence, knowledge and practical tools required to use AI safely, ethically and impactfully.
Alex Russell, BET CEO, said: "AI can be transformative, but only if teachers are in the driving seat. This partnership helps ensure that AI enhances the classroom rather than undermines it. With structured training and support, we can make sure it becomes a powerful tool for equity and opportunity, not a source of division."
BET will continue progressing toward full AiEd Certification across all its schools and looks forward to sharing its learning, contributing to national conversations and ensuring that AI strengthens education for every learner.