AI Explorer Workshop (KS3)
AI Explorer is a practical, engaging workshop designed to introduce KS3 pupils to how artificial intelligence systems work beneath the surface. Learners move beyond using technology to understanding how data, algorithms and models interact to solve real-world problems.
Developing core computational thinking through AI
Our KS3 AI Explorer workshop develops core computational thinking skills while introducing pupils to artificial intelligence in a way that is accessible, relevant and educational for all.
How AI systems work
Input, processing and output in real-world AI systems
Algorithms and abstractions
Step-by-step instructions to solve real problems with data
Modelling problems using computational thinking
How text, images and sound are represented digitally
A clear overview
AI Explorer at a glance
Duration & format
Workshop format
Half-day delivery, designed to fit within the school timetable. Sessions delivered as a whole-class workshop or split across multiple groups during the day.
- Typical delivery: 2–3 hours per group
- In-school, in one classroom or hall
- Facilitator-led with hands-on pupil activities
Pupils & group size
Who it’s for
The AI Explorer workshop is designed for KS3 pupils (Years 7-9) and is fully adaptable for mixed abilities and SEND provision.
- Ideal class size: up to 30 pupils
- Suitable for whole classes or selected groups
- Activities differentiated by support and challenge
What’s covered
What pupils explore
Pupils are introduced to artificial intelligence through interactive discussion and practical activities that build understanding, not just excitement.
- What AI is (and what it is not)
- How machines learn from data
- Early discussions around fairness, bias and careers
Workshop breakdown
The AI Explorer workshop is broken down into three main segments:
Introduction to AI
What is AI, how it works and where pupils encounter it in daily life
Hands-on AI project
Pupils design and build an AI project in Scratch or Python
Ethical considerations & careers in AI
Bias, privacy, trustworthiness, real-world impact and the future
Build and evaluate an AI system
Pupils take part in a guided programming activity where they design, train and evaluate an AI system using real data. Activities are differentiated and can be delivered in Scratch or Python depending on prior experience and school requirements. Learners follow a simplified AI development lifecycle:
- Defining the problem
- Understanding data
- Building a model
- Testing and evaluation
- Reflecting on limitations and bias
Planned, delivered and supported
AI Explorer workshops are delivered in person at your school, college or event venue. We work with your existing facilities and use open-source, freely available tools, ensuring there are no additional software or licence costs. Every workshop is individually planned. Before delivery, we hold a short online planning meeting with staff to ensure the session is tailored to pupil needs and runs smoothly on the day.
- In-school delivery
- Open-source tools
- Pre-workshop planning meeting
Answers to common planning and delivery questions
Frequently asked questions
What age group is AI Explorer suitable for?
AI Explorer is designed for KS3 pupils (Years 7-9). Activities are adapted to suit different ages, confidence levels and learning needs within a class.
Do pupils need any prior experience with coding or AI?
No prior experience is required. The workshop starts from first principles and builds understanding through discussion, examples and hands-on activities.
What equipment does the school need to provide?
We use the school’s existing facilities. Typically this includes:
Laptops or tablets (shared devices are fine)
Internet access
A screen or projector for whole-class discussion
All tools used are freely available online.
How many pupils can take part?
The workshop works best with up to 30 pupils per session. For larger year groups, multiple sessions can be delivered across the day.
Is the workshop suitable for SEND pupils?
Yes. Activities are designed to be inclusive and can be adapted to support SEND pupils. We discuss requirements with schools in advance to ensure appropriate adjustments are made.
How long does the workshop last?
AI Discovery can be delivered as:
A half-day workshop
A full-day programme with multiple sessions
The final structure is agreed with the school during the planning call.
Does the workshop link to the curriculum?
Yes. The workshop supports computing, digital literacy and wider curriculum goals, including critical thinking, problem solving and ethical awareness.
What happens after the workshop?
Schools receive access to follow-up resources to support continued learning and classroom discussion after the workshop has finished.
Still have questions? We’re happy to talk through your school’s needs.