Hilden Oaks

As educators in a digital world, Hilden Oaks Prep have become accustomed to the rapidly changing nature of technology. However, the pace at which ‘AI’ has raced into the public eye has taken many of us by surprise.

Mr Joe Makey, computing co-ordinator at Hilden Oaks, observes; “I believe that our role as digital educators is not to prepare children for the world of technology of now, but for the world of technology in the next 10+ years and beyond! Unfortunately, of course, we do not know what this world will look like – and so we must instead focus on developing the young minds in our care to be critical, discerning, creative and above all curious. Throughout my education experience, nothing has brought these concepts together as clearly and accessibly as AI.”Of course, AI does present Hilden Oaks and similar schools, with a number of challenges. The risk of children finding unreliable or misleading information is very much at the forefront of our minds. If well written and seemingly well-sourced, an AI article could potentially mislead children and provide quick, bespoke yet inaccurate information.

We also have to consider carefully how to manage our pupils’ mental health in a world where technology can seem at times inescapable. At Hilden Oaks we embrace a ‘Mindfulness’ curriculum and this has become embedded in many curriculum areas, not least in computing. ‘Digital sunsets’ – a time where family all put their devices down for the evening – are regularly discussed, as well as other ways to relax and unwind without a reliance on technology.

We must, however, consider the learning opportunities that AI can present. A pupil struggling for that ‘spark’ to get a story going could find one using AI. Another, looking for alternative ways to phrase their report, could be presented with options, or a child wondering what Picasso and Mondrian could create if they collaborated, could finally be inspired. The internet is the most powerful learning tool that we could ever offer our children, and always will be. Our job is to make sure that our children are educated to use it to its full potential. Love it or hate it, AI is here to stay – and for the time being so are we!

Find out more at hildenoaks.co.uk

Hazelwood School

Nichola Trojanowski, Assistant Head Curriculum Development at Hazelwood School explores the human advantage in the age of AI.

At Hazelwood School, we’re inspired by the potential of artificial intelligence to revolutionise education, but we remain steadfast in our belief that human qualities lie at the heart of learning. AI can enhance how we teach, offering personalised tools and innovative experiences, but it cannot replace the unique human skills of empathy, creativity and ethical reasoning.

As the world moves forward at an unprecedented pace, our responsibility as educators is not only to prepare pupils to work alongside intelligent systems but also to help them retain their distinctively human edge. This means teaching children to think critically, communicate effectively, and approach challenges with compassion and courage – values that align with our school’s ethos.

While AI can analyse data and process information, it is the human capacity for connection and ethical decision-making that will shape the future. At Hazelwood, we aim to empower our pupils to use AI responsibly, leveraging its capabilities while remaining grounded in the skills and values that make us truly human.

By embracing the opportunities AI provides and reinforcing the human advantage, we’re preparing Hazelwood pupils not just to adapt but to lead in an ever-changing world.

For more information visit hazelwoodschool.co.uk