The UK government is set to launch a controversial initiative this summer, introducing AI tutoring tools in secondary schools aimed at supporting disadvantaged students whose families cannot afford private tuition. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has approved a £23 million scheme that will allow selected EdTech companies to develop and test AI tutoring tools in pilot schools, targeting students aged 13 to 15. Proponents argue that this initiative could help level the educational playing field for around 450,000 pupils in the UK, potentially enhancing learning outcomes. However, campaigners and education leaders have expressed serious concerns, warning that the government is 'experimenting on disadvantaged children' and that AI cannot replace the essential human interaction provided by teachers. Critics, including Molly Kingsley from SafeScreens, argue that the initiative prioritizes cost savings over effective education, potentially putting vulnerable students at risk. They emphasize the necessity of teacher-led support, particularly for students with special educational needs and disabilities. Education leaders have called for AI tools to be used only as supplementary aids, not as replacements for direct teaching, stressing the importance of maintaining the human element in education.