AI tool summary for DPOs and governors
ChatGPT Free / Plus
OpenAI · Facts last checked 2026-10-23 · Printed 23 October 2026
AI Prefect
Staff: Red · Not recommended for school data
- Trains on what you type by default, with no school-level opt-out stated
- Supplier acts as a data controller, not a processor for the school
Pupils: Red · Not recommended for school data
- Trains on what you type by default, with no school-level opt-out stated
- Supplier acts as a data controller, not a processor for the school
| Supplier | OpenAI |
|---|---|
| Category | general chatbot |
| Pupil-facing | not stated |
| Processor or controller | controller (consumer service) |
| Where data is stored | not stated |
| Trains AI models on inputs | YES by default (opt-out: Settings > Data controls > Improve the model for everyone); Temporary Chats not used |
| How long inputs are kept | chats kept until deleted; Temporary Chats up to 30 days |
| Data processing agreement (DPA) | not stated |
| Signs individual DPAs with schools | not stated |
| UK GDPR representative / DPO | not stated |
| Minimum age | not stated |
| Key safety note | not stated |
| Main use | General AI assistant / chatbot |
Better-rated alternatives for the same use: ChatGPT Edu (Green), Gemini app (Workspace for Education) (Green), Microsoft 365 Copilot (Green)
Before using it: check the minimum age fits your pupils, confirm a data processing agreement is in place, switch off AI training where possible, and record the decision in your DPIA.
Sources: https://help.openai.com/en/articles/7730893-data-controls-in-chatgpt · https://openai.com/en-GB/policies/row-privacy-policy/
Full entry: aiprefect.co.uk/tools/chatgpt-free-plus. Rating is a rules-based summary of the supplier’s published terms. “Not stated” means we could not find it in their documents. This is not legal advice and does not replace your DPIA.