Protecting Assessment Integrity in the Age of AI
This intervention framework references recognised UK education guidance — including Department for Education (DfE) generative AI guidance for schools, Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) expectations on pupil data, Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE), Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) and Ofqual assessment integrity guidance, and Ofsted expectations for safeguarding and curriculum quality. It supports school self-assessment; it is not legal advice and does not imply official endorsement or compliance certification.
Why This Matters
AI makes it easy for pupils to produce work that is not their own — and easy for staff to over-rely on AI feedback. Both undermine the integrity of assessment.
This guide reflects Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) and Ofqual expectations on assessment and academic integrity.
Protecting Integrity
Be Clear About Expectations
Tell pupils when AI is permitted, when it is not, and how use must be acknowledged. Ambiguity drives misuse.
Design Assessment That Shows Thinking
Favour tasks that reveal the process:
- Drafts, plans and annotated working
- In-class and verbal components
- Personal reflection and local context
- Follow-up questions that test understanding
Use AI Feedback Carefully
AI can speed up formative feedback, but you remain responsible for accuracy and fairness. Never enter identifiable pupil work into public tools, and always review AI feedback before it reaches a pupil.
Respond Proportionately
Where misuse is suspected, focus on a conversation and learning first. Follow your school and JCQ procedures for formal assessments.
Assessment Integrity Checklist
For each assessment:
- Pupils know whether AI is allowed and how to acknowledge it
- The task makes pupil thinking visible
- Any AI feedback I use is reviewed for accuracy
- No identifiable pupil work was entered into a public tool
- I know the JCQ / school process if misuse is suspected
What can I download?
Assessment Integrity Checklist (PDF — add download in editor)
Use with department and moderation meetings.
What training exists?
AI Awareness Day Teacher Session
Improve Your Benchmark Score
This framework supports improvement in:
- Assessment Integrity
- AI Literacy
- Human Oversight
The goal is not to catch pupils out — it is to keep learning honest.
Retake the teacher benchmark after reviewing your assessment practice
Wider Support & Development
For more information, guidance and support — including how AI Awareness Day can help your school — contact the AI Awareness team.