This week, Director of Digital Learning, Enterprise and Sustainability, Mrs Hudson-Findley, guest writes on the Headmistress’s blog about the physical and digital realms, highlighting recent achievements in nuclear fusion and advancements in AI technology.

As I sit here a fascinating evolution is unfolding—one that blurs the lines between the physical (‘atoms’) and the digital (‘bits’). The Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) in California achieved a monumental milestone in nuclear fusion by attaining the first-ever net energy gain from a fusion reaction. A team from Princeton University, used an AI model capable of predicting and preventing instabilities within the fusion process, to encourage more controlled and sustainable reactions (Cuthbertson, 2024). This is unprecedented and could mean a potential future of limitless, clean energy.

The distinction between atoms (physical products) and bits (digital products) has been a cornerstone of economic and technological discussions for decades. However, the advent of AI and digital fabrication technologies is merging these realms, leading to innovative production methods and business models. This convergence is crafting a new era of production and commerce, significantly influenced by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). The manufacturing industry, particularly Biotech companies such as Solugen, have been using AI to influence enzyme production to produce greater yield and waste free chemical products.

AI algorithms can predict how protein structures fold, which is essential for understanding how enzymes function. This capability was once a complex and time-consuming task for scientists. With AI, it’s now possible to rapidly design and test new enzymes within computer simulations before any physical manufacturing takes place. This speeds up the research and development process but also significantly reduces costs and environmental impact.

This emerging industrial trend towards a hybrid of atoms and bits is not limited to high-tech industries. It is influencing various sectors, including automotive, fashion, and even food production, where AI-driven technologies are being used to design and manufacture products. For instance, in automotive manufacturing, AI is used to optimise supply chains, predict maintenance, and even guide the design of more fuel-efficient vehicles.

With this rapid growth all around us, we need to look to education to do the same. At BGS we are embracing lateral thinking to creatively respond and craft a curriculum which helps prepare our students for a job market where the rules will be significantly different. Recognising the importance of interdisciplinary skills, and building sustainable futures, we are incorporating a range of strategies into our curriculum and extracurricular activities.

Through STEM integration we are intensifying our focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics education, ensuring students understand both the theoretical and practical applications of their knowledge. This includes new lab simulation software to provide students with 24-hour lab access.

We are continuing to commit to our journey with digital literacy and AI education. This year we welcome a new GLG position of Digital and Enterprise Captain. Working across the school, this individual will be a guiding student voice to help shape our strategy as we continue to integrate technology within our curriculum.

Our commitment to the use of technology to support a sustainable environment will be further strengthened this summer with an exciting recycling project that will be spearheaded by our Sustainability Captain and the Eco Club. Meanwhile, our Year 8 students have also been harnessing the capabilities of their iPads to produce some short films to explore eco issues and influence positive behaviours. We will be judging the winners and showing their films soon.

As the boundaries between industries become increasingly blurred, our educational approach aims to equip students with the skills and mindset needed to navigate and contribute to this evolving landscape. By fostering a culture of curiosity, interdisciplinary learning, and digital proficiency, we are preparing our students not just to adapt to the future but to shape it. Our commitment is to ensure that as the world changes, our students remain at the forefront. They will be ready to meet the challenges and opportunities this new era presents.

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Cuthbertson, A (2024). “AI solves nuclear fusion puzzle for near-limitless clean energy”. The Independent. Available at: https://www.independent.co.uk/tech/nuclear-fusion-ai-clean-energy-b2505138.html [Accessed 5/3/24]