AI for Montessori Leaders: What You Need to Know First

AI is probably already in your service

Most services are already encountering AI in some form, whether for observations, learning stories, or staff experimenting on their own. Very few have the governance in place to keep tāmarki and your business safe.

This session is a plain language look at what New Zealand requires when personal information is involved, what you need to consider when AI tools are used, and what to check before using AI to help write or update your own policies.

What we'll cover

Step back, prioritise, and get a clear roadmap:

• Where AI may already be used in your service

• Using AI safely and compliantly in an ECE setting, including what the Privacy Act requires of you

• How to tell a lower-risk use from a high-risk one

• Protecting the personal information of children, whanau, and staff when using any AI enabled tool

• How to guide staff to use AI, and share your use with whānau

• What to know before using AI to draft or update your service's policies, including the risks of relying on it without expert review

Meet the team

Special guest: Clare Freeborn-Brown

ECE Advisor, Kōwhai Community

Clare is an experienced ECE expert with a background spanning leadership development, policy advisory, and centre operations. She's passionate about helping centre leaders build confidence and capability — with a clear, practical, and kind approach.

Emma Gunn

ECE Lead Writer, ECEDocs

Emma is an ex-lawer and teacher, and is active in her local ECE service. She is part of the expert team behind your ECEDocs policies.