What we could learn from Estonia - AI Leap programme to bring AI tools to all schools

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What New Zealand Could Learn from Estonia’s Bold AI Leap in Education

Estonia has done it again—pushing boundaries and proving that a small nation with a big vision can lead the world in digital education. Their latest initiative, AI Leap 2025, is a gutsy, all-in move to integrate artificial intelligence into their education system. And frankly, New Zealand should be paying close attention.

As a school leader, I see AI sneaking into our classrooms whether we like it or not (spoiler: the kids are already using it whether we like it or not). The question is, will we, as an education system, harness AI’s potential, or will we fumble our way through while our students and some schools get ahead while others fall behind? Doubling down on an already alarming digital divide. Estonia’s approach offers some serious food for thought—so let’s break it down.

From Tiger Leap to AI Leap—Where’s Our Big Leap?

Back in the 1990s, Estonia’s Tiger Leap programme brought computers and the internet into schools before most of us even knew what a modem was. That forward-thinking move set them up as digital pioneers. Now, they’re making another leap—this time into AI-powered education.

Meanwhile, here in Aotearoa, we’ve dabbled in digital learning, rolled out devices, and embraced tech—but do we have a clear, coordinated vision for AI? Or are we just throwing Chromebooks at the problem and hoping for the best? A national AI strategy could be the difference between leading and lagging.

Note - we did publish a series of recommendations back in 2014. You can read that report here. 

AI for All—No More Digital Haves and Have-Nots

One of the the most powerful things about Estonia’s AI Leap is that it’s not just for the techiest, wealthiest schools—it’s for everyone. By September 2025, 20,000 high school students and 3,000 teachers will have free access to top AI learning tools. The following year, they’ll roll it out to thousands more.

Here in NZ, we still struggle with digital equity. Some students have access to the latest tech, while others are crossing their fingers that the school or home Wi-Fi will hold up. Imagine if we took a page from Estonia’s playbook and ensured that every rangitahi—no matter where they live or what their parents earn—had access to AI-powered learning tools. That’s a digital strategy worth having.

Teachers Need More Than Just a Good Luck Wish

Estonia knows AI in classrooms is only as good as the teachers using it. That’s why they’re investing heavily in teacher training. Because let’s be real—if you’ve ever seen a teacher panic when the projector won’t turn on, you’ll know that tech training is a must.

New Zealand teachers are resourceful, but we need structured, nationwide support to make AI work for us. Right now, teachers are figuring it out on their own, often outside of work hours (because we all have so much free time, right?). If we’re serious about AI in education, let’s get serious about upskilling teachers—before our students start schooling us.

PS. All teachers can access free professional development through the AI Community of Practice which has been powered up the AI Forum and run by some incredible educators. I encourage you to sign up.

AI-Powered Learning—More Than Just Fancy Flashcards

Estonia isn’t just using AI for efficiency—it’s about making learning smarter and more personalised. AI tools can identify gaps in students' knowledge, adapt lessons in real time, and provide instant feedback. It’s the kind of tailored learning we talk about in New Zealand but often struggle to deliver at scale.

Imagine a classroom where AI acts like an ever-patient teaching assistant, adjusting to each student’s pace, offering support where needed, and—dare I say—helping reduce teacher workload? If Estonia can do it, why can’t we?

Public-Private Partnerships—Because Government Alone Can’t Do It All

Estonia’s AI Leap isn’t just a government project; it’s a collaboration with major AI developers like OpenAI and Anthropic. That means they’re getting access to world-class expertise and cutting-edge technology without trying to reinvent the wheel.

New Zealand should take a hint. We have some brilliant minds in tech and education—why not bring them together? Instead of waiting for an AI miracle to appear in the next budget cycle, let’s build strong partnerships now and make AI work for our students.

Time to Take the Leap?

Estonia’s AI Leap 2025 is bold, forward-thinking, and exactly the kind of initiative that will shape the future of education.

So, New Zealand, are we ready to make our move? Or will we be playing catch-up while other nations race ahead? The choice is ours. Let’s not wait until 2030 to realise we should have acted sooner.

Time to leap.


Further Reading

You can find out more about Estonia'a approach here.

AI Forum Blueprint Update January 2025

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