On Wednesday the 14th of January, Passmores Academy’s Scholars cohort (Gifted and  Talented) participated in our Research and Innovation Workshop. The students were tasked with working collaboratively and creatively to resolve one of five real world problems as an acting panel of university researchers! The students were challenged with questions including ‘can AI be trusted to make ethical decisions’ and ‘what does a zero-waste school like look;’ in which they had to research and present a new solution to said questions. Our cohort immediately rose to the challenge and began to judiciously research pre-existing solutions and potential new solutions, all backed by evidence. The Scholars worked seamlessly in their teams, ensuring efficient research was being conducted and considered for their final solution. It was fantastic to see how well they worked together and delegated roles out within their group to ensure efficient progress was being made. 

After gathering their evidence, the Scholars moved on to the next task of the day – crafting a presentation based on their research to deliver to a panel – including Passmores Academy’s head teacher, Miss Christie. The Scholars had to ensure their presentation reflected their research depth, and showcased their creativity, innovation and the impact of their solution. Each group delivered their thorough and elaborate presentations confidently, which made deciding the winner a challenge for the panel! It was clear how hard the cohort had worked all day and their extreme effort was embodied into their final presentations After much deliberation, our winning group was Janelle, Scarlett, Tilly, Erin and Alice who presented pragmatic ideas about the ethical considerations required if we further embedded AI into society! Some notable mentions solving world hunger using bugs and their nutritional value and low cost, as well as using a German school as pioneers for how to implement zero-waste culture into schools! 

I am so incredibly proud of every single one of my Scholars students, they worked extremely hard and their efforts were evident throughout the entire day. It was a pleasure to deliver this workshop to our Year 7 and 8 Scholars! 

Miss Palmer