Secondary schools rapidly embrace AI but prefer blended learning

Almost four in five Australian secondary schools are currently employing artificial intelligence (AI) tools in their educational practices, according to recent research from Campion Education.

The Digital Landscapes in Australian Schools 2025 report gathered insights from 104 senior leaders working at secondary and combined primary/secondary schools across the country to assess how institutions are approaching digital strategy, technology integration, and staff development.

The report found that 78.2% of surveyed respondents have actively adopted AI education tools, marking a considerable increase in uptake compared to findings from 2023, when AI featured infrequently in school settings.

Additionally, around 20.6% of respondents stated they are planning to introduce or expand their schools' use of AI technology within the next year, indicating ongoing momentum towards more widespread adoption in Australian schools.

The study explored several aspects of digital transformation, covering not only AI adoption but also usage of a variety of digital tools, digital strategy execution, staff professional development needs, funding limitations, and concerns related to data security and privacy.

Despite rising interest in and use of digital resources, a significant proportion of school leaders favour a mixed approach to learning materials. Over half of respondents (53.9%) indicated a preference for a 'dual learning' approach, which incorporates both digital and print resources rather than transitioning to exclusively digital systems.

Educators cited the advantages of physical, distraction-free print materials and stressed that choosing print was a deliberate pedagogical decision rather than merely a contingency plan.

Tom Bradley, Chief Executive Officer of Campion Education, highlighted that the research reflects a considered approach to digital transformation within schools. He stated: "Schools are strategically integrating digital technology alongside traditional teaching tools. This blended approach takes the benefits of digital tools but recognises their drawbacks. Schools value having multiple options available to support diverse learning styles."

While digital adoption continues to accelerate, schools are also facing key challenges in the process. Respondents identified data security, the usability of digital tools, staff training, and funding as significant concerns hampering their ability to fully harness new technologies.

More than 70% of the surveyed school leaders said strong data management protocols and clearly defined privacy policies are essential criteria for selecting digital technology partners.

Bradley commented on the need for additional support in light of these challenges, stating: "Our research clearly shows that while schools are enthusiastic about leveraging new technologies like AI, they need ongoing support, particularly around staff training, funding, and robust data management. There's a clear opportunity for technology vendors and policymakers to address these barriers to ensure that digital transformation benefits all Australian schools equitably."

The report also tracked changes since 2023, documenting the evolution of digital readiness in schools and offering a perspective on the sector's projected direction for the next three years.

The findings indicate that although digital tools have become more prevalent, many schools are opting for a measured combination of technology and traditional resources, citing both pedagogical effectiveness and practical concerns such as funding and staff preparedness.