Rugby School launches AI course for D and E block students

Generative AI is changing education, and at Rugby School it as a chance to build on our tradition of innovation, whilst committing to ensuring our students continue to learn, think, and create through their own efforts.

Our approach to teaching – the Rugby Way – is based on three principles: homework that uses high-quality texts, so students are well prepared for lessons; lessons that stretch students by encouraging them to think hard and solve problems; and maximising the benefits of human interaction in the classroom – AI is most useful in helping students get ready for these moments.

Using AI responsibly is not always straightforward – we want our students to see it as a tool for learning, not a shortcut. For instance, our Sixth Formers already use the tall ‘Bio Bot’ as a virtual tutor, helping them check their understanding and sharpen their thinking before lessons.

To support students further, we are introducing a new taught course on generative AI for D and E block students. Starting in September 2025, they will have a fortnightly lesson with our Computer Science Department covering questions such as: What is AI? How does it work? What is the ethical use? And how can young people prepare for a future shaped by these technologies?

Developed with Laura Knight, a leading voice in AI and education, the course will be interactive, practical and thought-provoking. Some of our students had a preview day with Laura Knight and her colleague Laura White last term, and they found it both informative and fun.

We are excited to offer this new course and confident it will give our students the knowledge and confidence they need to navigate an AI-enhanced future.