Preparing pupils with the skills and knowledge for the demands of life and work has never been more important for schools. While a core role of education is to instil a love of learning and confidence in solving problems, it would be reticent to ignore some vital skills that can help people succeed.
That is why a bespoke series of lessons has been launched at St Bede’s to foster and instil these skills in pupils. Taught across all year groups, from Upper Third to the Sixth Form, pupils learn independent research skills, project management, presentation, and oracy techniques. At each stage, pupils are encouraged to participate in critical self-reflection, instilling ownership and responsibility.
Woven into the program is other vitally important knowledge for pupils, the responsible and acceptable use of artificial intelligence. Rather than shy away from the use of AI, pupils are taught about the ethical integration of AI in their assignments, which does not replace effort, and also given the skills to spot when AI has been used in the work of others. The empowering of pupils means there is no clandestine use of AI, they are clear on which pieces of work it is acceptable to use and how to do so responsibly.
While the purpose of the weekly sessions is to enable pupils to discover the joy of independent learning, take responsibility for their study and learn new skills, rather than an additional qualification, pupils in Year 10 and Lower Sixth do put their learning into action and complete an externally accredited project qualification. Along with internal projects in other year groups this is a fantastic way for pupils to showcase their learning in a field of personal interest to them.
From ethical AI use to project qualifications, St Bede’s equips pupils with real-world skills to thrive in a fast-changing world.