Farringtons is thrilled to announce the launch of Digital Futures, an innovative new subject in the Senior School that equips pupils with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world. By seamlessly combining elements of business, creativity and enterprise, this dynamic course invites pupils to tackle real-world challenges head-on. As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform the way we live and work, Digital Futures gives pupils a unique opportunity to explore emerging technologies and understand their impact on society, industry and future careers.
What Pupils Will Discover
Understanding AI and Safety
To begin with, pupils will begin by exploring the foundations of artificial intelligence, developing an understanding of what AI is and how it is being used in everyday life. They will investigate the principles of machine learning and how computers can be trained to recognise patterns, make decisions and classify information. The course will also examine important ethical considerations, including the concept of “Bias In, Bias Out”, helping pupils understand how data can influence AI outcomes and why society’s responsible development and use of AI systems is essential in today’s world.
Solving Problems with AI
As their understanding develops, pupils will explore how AI is already embedded in many of the technologies they use every day. In addition, they will investigate how organisations use AI to solve complex real-world problems and will have opportunities to create their own AI-powered projects. Through practical activities, pupils will experiment with machine learning models, analyse data, and evaluate how technology can be used to improve decision-making, efficiency and innovation across a wide range of contexts.
AI Careers and Industry Impact
Digital Futures will also help pupils look beyond the classroom by exploring how AI and digital technologies are transforming industries including healthcare, finance, media, manufacturing and transport. Pupils will examine emerging career opportunities and consider how the workplace is evolving in response to rapid technological change. Through discussions and project work, they will develop an appreciation of the skills, adaptability and entrepreneurial mindset that pupils require to succeed in the careers of the future.
Hands-On Innovation
Crucially, a key aspect of the course is the opportunity for pupils to apply their learning through practical and creative projects. Students will design, develop and refine their own AI solutions, working both independently and collaboratively to address authentic challenges. These experiences will encourage creativity, critical thinking, resilience and problem-solving, while developing confidence in using emerging technologies to generate innovative ideas and solutions.
For Year 9 pupils, Digital Futures will be taught across two lessons each week. One lesson will focus specifically on the AI curriculum, allowing students to develop their understanding of artificial intelligence and its applications. The second lesson will be dedicated to a Business and Creative iMedia project, where pupils will apply entrepreneurial thinking, creativity and digital media skills to a range of engaging real-world challenges.
“We are incredibly excited to introduce Digital Futures to our curriculum. This subject provides students with a unique opportunity to explore one of the most transformative technologies of our time while developing the creativity, business awareness and problem-solving skills that will be essential for their future success. We look forward to inspiring the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs and responsible digital citizens.”– Mrs Sharan Owen, Head of BEATS
Whether pupils aspire to become technology entrepreneurs, creative designers, business leaders or future innovators, Digital Futures will provide them with the knowledge, experiences and mindset needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world. Through a blend of AI, business and creative technology, Farringtons pupils will be empowered not only to adapt to the future, but to help shape it.
