Finnish primary school updates rules to require AI use reporting

A primary school in Hämeenlinna, southern Finland, has updated its conduct rules to require students to disclose any use of artificial intelligence in school assignments, Yle reports.

The new policy at Seminaarin School states that AI tools may not be used in assignments unless explicitly permitted by the teacher. If students do use AI, they must now report it. The rule change aims to prepare for increasing AI adoption while ensuring responsible use.

“We need to start practicing AI use with students, so it’s time to discuss the ground rules,” said principal Johanna Hyytiä. The school, with around 700 pupils, has not yet faced issues with AI misuse, but Hyytiä described the update as a proactive measure.

The Finnish National Agency for Education (Opetushallitus) supports the approach, calling it a positive step. Education counsellor Juho Helminen noted that while AI offers benefits, students must learn to use it responsibly rather than bypassing the learning process.

“The widely recognised risk is that students may be tempted to jump straight to the correct answer without going through the sometimes challenging learning process,” Helminen said.

Many Finnish schools are now developing AI guidelines and adopting tools, with teacher training identified as a priority. The city of Lahti, for example, has introduced Microsoft’s Copilot Chat for staff and is assessing generative AI tools for students, though data protection concerns remain for underage users.

AI literacy will also be added to the OECD’s PISA assessments from 2029, reflecting growing emphasis on digital skills in education.

“AI isn’t going away—its development will only accelerate,” Helminen said. “If we don’t build this competence, we’ll face problems. The risks are manageable, and the benefits are significant.”