A group of sixth-form students from schools across Gloucestershire and Worcestershire recently gathered at Malvern College for a pioneering artificial intelligence symposium. This event brought together young learners, industry experts, and academics to explore AI’s expanding influence in society and business.
Organised by Dr Robert Whitehouse, a senior lecturer at the University of Gloucestershire, the inaugural symposium hosted 40 Lower Sixth students from Malvern College, Malvern St James, Chosen Hill School, and Sir Thomas Rich’s School — showcasing collaboration between independent and state schools. The event aimed to equip students with essential knowledge about AI in preparation for higher education and future careers shaped by rapid technological advances.
Dr Whitehouse emphasised the significance of engaging youth with AI, stating, “These students are the future. Developing a strong understanding of AI will empower them both professionally and personally as they navigate a tech-driven world.”
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The day featured compelling keynote speeches, including one from Dr Will Sayers, associate head of the School of Business, Computing and Social Sciences at the University of Gloucestershire, who discussed AI’s profound societal and business impacts. Another highlight was Professor Hassan Chizari, a globally recognised cybersecurity expert, sharing his perspectives on the technology’s challenges and opportunities.
Industry leaders also contributed valuable insights. Representatives from Cyber Cheltenham’s Cynam initiative and James Luke, founder and AI strategist at Doability — formerly a distinguished engineer and master inventor at IBM with over 15 patents — enriched the programme with their expert knowledge.
Students engaged in a collaborative challenge, working in mixed teams to produce podcasts and video blogs analysing AI’s effects on business. Drawing from symposium discussions, independent research, and critical thinking, the pupils examined both the potential benefits and risks associated with AI technologies.
These student-created media projects will be shared by the university and schools to inspire and educate others.
One participant reflected, “It was an incredible opportunity to connect with academics and industry pioneers shaping AI’s future. Collaborating with peers from different schools brought diverse ideas that deepened the experience.”
Keith Metcalfe, headmaster of Malvern College, expressed enthusiasm for the event’s impact: “Welcoming students from across the region to engage with AI’s transformative power was a privilege. We hope this experience enhanced their understanding and fostered skills in teamwork, critical analysis, and digital creativity.”
Looking ahead, the participating students will visit FuturePark Cheltenham at the University of Gloucestershire, allowing them to observe firsthand how academic research translates into practical business and technological applications.