This week, Director of Digital Learning, Enterprise and Sustainability, Mrs Hudson-Findley, guest writes on the Headmistress’s blog about the next phase in our Artificial Intelligence (AI) strategic plan.

The Tech giant Gartner released their predictions for the top trends in technology this month, proving that the need for a forward thinking mindset should be the primary instrument in any organisation’s tool kit. In the fast-paced landscape of educational technology we continue to renew our focus on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), which will, according to Gartner, be an overriding influence within most future industries.

The next phase in our AI strategic plan, builds on our robust foundation of fundamental skills and understanding of AI, digital literacy and safe internet practices. We are moving from “what is AI?” to “how can we leverage AI pedagogically?” We have seen AI begin to transform learning experiences, with our tutors using AI tools to offer personalised learning paths and bolstering our students’ analytical and creative skills. Now, we are poised to take this to the next level.

A cornerstone of our wider strategy is the continuous professional development of our teaching staff’s digital skills. The next phase of our continuous digital teacher training programme will enable our educators to continue enhancing our curriculum delivery and assessment methods. This term, new training sessions will be available, ranging from utilising AI for differentiated instruction, supporting students with additional learning needs and employing adaptive learning technologies that can further cater to the unique learning needs of each student.

These hands-on workshops will empower teachers to integrate advanced AI practices seamlessly into their teaching, ensuring that they can foster an environment where technology is a bridge rather than a barrier to learning. Our teaching staff will be able to guide our students through the use of AI creatively and ethically, encouraging them to think critically and ask the right questions from the pre-approved tools that are available to them.

Our commitment to digital safety remains paramount. As we integrate AI more deeply into our educational fabric, we understand the necessity of facilitating our student’s understanding and application of digital safety protocols. To this end, student digital safety workshops will be a fixture in the upcoming term, specifically designed to address the nuances of AI interaction, data privacy, and the importance of maintaining a healthy digital footprint with social media platforms in particular.

CV enhancing optional short courses will delve into topics such as AI in everyday life, the impact of machine learning, in addition to learning how AI models are trained, which are now fundamental skills. Assemblies commencing after the Christmas break will celebrate the achievements of our students in the digital realm, featuring demonstrations of AI projects that have been completed and will also provide key learning opportunities for encouraging social responsibility when engaging with technology. Our student-centric approach ensures that these initiatives are not just educational but also inspirational.

As we move forward, we are mindful of the horizon – the rapidly evolving digital landscape that our students will navigate as they forge their paths in the world. BGS is committed to preparing them not just to face this future but to shape it.

Our ambition is clear: to mould a generation of digitally literate, ethically aware, and confident young women who are not just ready for the future but are also poised to lead it. With AI as our tool and education as our craft, we look forward to a world where our students will not just thrive but also drive the technological advancements that can lead to a brighter, more inclusive future.