AI Unlocked: A Practical, Ethical and Empowering Introduction to Artificial Intelligence for Primary School Teachers
(Patrick Hickey @aiteachingguru)
Course Overview
This practical and empowering course introduces primary teachers to artificial intelligence in a clear, accessible and classroom-focused way. Moving beyond theory, it focuses on real teaching contexts—planning, differentiation, assessment and workload—showing how AI can be used to enhance practice while maintaining professional judgement and ethical responsibility.
Participants will develop hands-on experience using leading AI platforms such as Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini and Claude, learning how to create high-quality, curriculum-aligned resources efficiently. A strong emphasis is placed on inclusion, demonstrating how AI can support differentiation through Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and enable teachers to meet the needs of diverse learners more effectively.
The course also explores the role of AI in whole-school practice, including School Self-Evaluation (SSE), planning and professional collaboration. Crucially, participants will develop the skills to critically evaluate AI-generated content, understand its limitations and use it safely, responsibly and in line with Department of Education guidance.
By the end of the course, teachers will feel confident using AI to support their work, reduce workload and enhance teaching and learning—while remaining firmly in control as reflective, ethical professionals.
Course Structure
20 hours of learning. Participants must complete 10 hours of online learning and 10 self-verified hours (module exercises, resources, discussion forum and reflective learning log). Technical Support provided.
Compulsory elements - 2 discussion forum posts per module, Reflective Learning assignment, creation of personal learning record. You must complete the required time on the course before a certificate can be issued.
Certification and EPV Days
All Anokha Learning Summer Courses for Teachers have been approved by the Department of Education & Skills for EPV Certification. Start and completion dates printed on your Cert.
EPV days awarded as follows:
1 course – 3 EPV days, 2 courses – 4 EPV days , 3 courses – 5 EPV days
If you buy two or more courses you must only complete one course at a time.
Duration
For 2026 our courses will commence on Wednesday 1st July and all courses must be completed by 5 pm on Wednesday 22nd July. If you buy two or more courses you must only complete one course at a time. As per the DES criteria you must complete the required time on the course and your start and completion dates will be printed on your Cert for your EPV days.
Course Modules
Build a clear, practical understanding of what AI is, how it works and why it matters for teaching and learning. Explore key concepts such as bias, accuracy and professional responsibility, grounded in current Department of Education guidance.
Examine how AI can support school planning, SSE processes and professional collaboration. Explore practical ways to reduce workload while maintaining quality and improving efficiency across your practice.
Gain hands-on experience using AI tools to create lesson plans, teaching resources and assessment materials. Develop prompt-writing skills and learn how to evaluate and refine AI-generated content for classroom use.
Develop a clear understanding of the ethical, legal and professional considerations surrounding AI use in schools, including data protection, safeguarding and academic integrity. Learn how to use AI safely and responsibly in your classroom and school context.
Explore how AI can support inclusive teaching by generating differentiated materials for a wide range of learners. Apply UDL principles and Bloom’s Taxonomy to create accessible, engaging and appropriately challenging learning experiences.
About Patrick Hickey
Patrick Hickey – AI Teaching Guru
Patrick Hickey is an experienced teacher and Assistant Principal, widely recognised as one of Ireland’s leading voices in artificial intelligence in education. With over 20 years of teaching experience across subjects such as English and History, Patrick brings a deep understanding of classroom practice alongside a passion for innovation and technology.
Patrick has delivered AI training to thousands of teachers across Ireland through workshops, seminars, and school-based CPD, helping educators at all levels confidently integrate AI into their daily practice.
He has been featured in national media including RTÉ, TV3’s Tonight Show, and Newstalk, and is known for his practical, no-nonsense approach that makes AI accessible and relevant for real classrooms.
Through his work, Patrick supports teachers and school leaders to enhance teaching and learning, reduce workload, and create more personalised and engaging experiences for students. His sessions focus on real, actionable strategies that can be implemented immediately, whether you are new to AI or looking to take your practice to the next level.