New study finds 77% of teens admit to using AI to do their homework
UK teens say schools aren’t teaching them how to use AI properly and responsibly – with most relying on social media to learn how to use these new online tools
A new study has revealed that the majority of teenagers in UK schools are using AI tools like chatbots and apps to help with homework – but most aren’t learning about these technologies in the classroom.
According to the research, 77% of pupils aged 15–18 have used AI to help them complete homework, raising questions about whether teens are learning – or just leaning – on tools like ChatGPT.
The study, carried out by Downe House School, a girls’ boarding and day school in Berkshire, surveyed more than 1,000 students across state and private schools in England, Scotland and Wales. It found that while AI use among teens is nearly universal (a staggering 94% said they’d used it in some form), only 19% say they’ve learned about AI from school. The majority – 54% – say they rely on social media and the wider internet for information.
AI is everywhere – but the classroom isn’t keeping up
Despite the widespread use of AI among teens, most say their schools aren’t providing enough education around how to use it responsibly.
Jane Basnett, Director of Digital Learning at Downe House, believes this gap needs urgent attention. “We have to step up as educators and invest more in training teachers adequately on ethical use of AI,” she says. “While its storyline may not reflect every teenager’s experience, [Netflix’s] Adolescence was rooted in actual UK cases, lending it both authenticity and emotional weight.”
The drama has sparked fresh conversation around the blurred lines between AI, social media, and teenage life – something this study echoes. Although 66% of pupils said they want to learn more about AI at school, only 42% thought ethical education around it should be included in the curriculum. Almost half – 46% – said they weren’t particularly concerned either way.
Teens feel conflicted – but curious – about AI’s power
While many teens appear happy to use AI tools regularly (20%) or occasionally (49%), there’s no shortage of concerns. Nearly half (47%) fear AI will cause job losses in their chosen careers. Others worry about a loss of human interaction, or the risk of privacy invasion.
Yet, many students also recognise its potential. More than a third (35%) believe AI will be essential in their future jobs, and 60% say it’s already enhancing their learning experience.
“There is no denying that AI is appealing to young people,” Jane Basnett adds. “Despite some obvious concerns, there is a certain level of intrigue and optimism around its potential too.”
'I’m worried we’re losing critical thinking skills' – Teens speak out
The survey invited teens to share their personal views – and their responses reveal deep unease about AI’s growing role in education and society:
“I worry that my peers and I are becoming complacent and losing critical thinking skills due to an over-reliance on ChatGPT.”
“Personally, I feel that when others in my class are using AI to complete tasks, but I am not, (because I don’t really agree with it) then I am being disadvantaged.”
“I don’t trust AI, especially because the UK didn’t sign the AI agreement at the most recent COP. I think it’s a ticking time bomb.”
“I’m deeply concerned by the environmental impact of AI chatbots, specifically in relation to water consumption.”
“We are doomed if we do not stop this… Art and literature will die as billionaires get richer – we are getting closer and closer to the dystopia that we once feared.”
From fears about deepfakes and surveillance to worries about fairness in the classroom, the responses suggest that while AI may be smart, teens are smart enough to question it.
What do teens want when it comes to AI?
When asked who should be responsible for the future of AI, the most popular answer wasn’t teachers or tech companies – it was the government. Pupils also said they believed AI could benefit society by improving education, healthcare and the environment. But they want clearer boundaries, better education and ethical safeguards.
This study makes one thing clear: Gen Z isn’t blindly embracing AI – they’re asking tough questions. The onus is now on schools, policymakers and parents to help them navigate it with confidence.