AI and the Three C’s: Courage, Caution and Collaboration
AI and the Three C’s: Courage, Caution and Collaboration
Lauren Vallely
Durston House
AI and the Three C’s - Courage, Caution and Collaboration
Many schools have their own version of the "Three C’s" to describe the aims of their ambitious curriculum—often highlighting qualities such as curiosity, cooperation, collaboration, character education, and creativity. When nurtured from a young age, these attributes foster lifelong learning and metacognition, helping to develop strong, independent learners who are resilient and self-motivated.
As educators navigating the ongoing AI revolution, we must ask: how can we apply the Three C’s in a rapidly evolving digital world? Can we continue to promote these values while integrating AI? Can AI support critical thinking? What will parents think, and will pupils use it safely?
At Durston House, our curriculum is underpinned by three core goals: curiosity, character, and capability. Building on this foundation, our staff have developed an exciting vision for AI, framed around a new interpretation of the Three C’s: Courage, Caution, and Collaboration.
Courage
Navigating the world of AI as a standalone prep school is no small feat. While risks exist, careful planning is essential. Senior leaders recognise that staying ahead of the curve will yield long-term benefits—supporting both safeguarding and the promotion of e-safety.
Caution
Our Safeguarding and IT teams have worked diligently to create an AI register, informed by key documents and legislation. It is vital to acknowledge the safeguarding risks associated with AI, especially as pupils remain at the heart of our mission. More broadly, staff must understand the potential dangers of AI use, including misinformation, data protection (GDPR), and the sharing of intellectual property. Comprehensive training and support have been provided to address these areas.
Collaboration
Outstanding teaching thrives on collaboration, constructive feedback, and open dialogue. Our approach has embraced a range of strategies, including team teaching, action-based research, and the sharing of best practices. Staff have been encouraged to experiment with AI in a safe environment, sharing their insights via Microsoft Teams. Additionally, leading professionals from our parent community have delivered training and coaching sessions. Senior Management and Heads of Department have also collaborated on projects exploring the impact of generative AI on critical thinking and the development of key learning characteristics.
The Fourth C – Continuation
This presentation has focused on the Three C’s as essential steps toward the successful and responsible implementation of AI. However, continuation is key. As the world of AI continues to evolve, our next steps include launching an AI-powered app to support personalised, independent learning. Ongoing communication with parents and the continued professional development of staff remain priorities. It is equally important to monitor emerging risks and trends, always keeping safeguarding and pupil welfare at the centre of our vision.
View the presentation in full here: Vallely, L. (2025, September 17). AI and the Three C's: Courage, Caution and Collaboration. AIEOU Inaugural Conference, University of Oxford. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17537675
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