British school appoints AI to administrative position

Artificial intelligence (AI) is gradually taking up multiple jobs such as manufacturing, healthcare, customer service, and transportation. However, the role of an AI robot as a “headteacher” will still likely come off as a shock to most people. 

Recently, a middle school in the UK has taken steps to appoint an AI robot as its headteacher. Cottesmore School in West Sussex has collaborated with artificial intelligence developers to create Abigail Bailey, an AI robot that will aid the school’s headteacher in multiple aspects of their role.

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Tom Rogerson, the headteacher of Cottesmore School, highlighted that the AI robot could provide guidance on various subjects, including drafting school policies, supporting staff, and communicating with students with ADHD.

The AI technology behind Abigail Bailey implements a similar algorithm to the artificial intelligence robot called Chat GPT. These distinct AI models are capable of analyzing voluminous data and have extensive knowledge of machine learning and educational management.

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Despite the introduction of artificial intelligence robots, Rogerson emphasizes that they will not replace human teachers anytime soon. Cottesmore School aims to deploy these robots to augment human activities and enhance the capabilities of educators.

With this innovation, teaching staff and students will have access to a highly-trained artificial intelligence robot capable of providing immediate assistance, reducing the need to contact other individuals.

Cottesmore School is a top-rated day and boarding institution, catering to a range of students aged four to 13. The school has won multiple awards, such as the “Best Preparatory School” award. Despite the tuition fees of approximately £32000 ( around $39000) per year, students enjoy tailored AI robots to aid their learning styles.

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Rogerson firmly believes that students should learn to collaborate with artificial intelligence, a technology he considers transformative.

Furthermore, the inclusion of an artificial intelligence robot into the curriculum emphasizes Rogerson’s commitment to blending traditional methods with modern technologies.

Nonetheless, he opines that humans will always be an integral aspect of education, and the implementation of artificial intelligence robots is a method to enhance the educational experience, which remains the core value of the traditional learning environment.