As Artificial Intelligence becomes ever more a part of our daily lives and demand for AI expertise soars in industries across the globe, it is the responsibility of educators to equip young people with the knowledge and skills to not only navigate but to innovate and lead in their respective fields
This academic year, the pioneering IB school, Bloom World Academy became the first in the UAE to introduce a BTEC course in Artificial Intelligence within the core curriculum, making AI a mandatory subject for all students aged 14+.
The course aims to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in AI, covering topics from ethical considerations to machine learning and real-world applications in various industries. As they progress, students will become familiar with a range of AI technologies including image generation, content creation, automation and relevant AI software, alongside which the ethical implications and importance of self-discipline for responsible AI use will be a focus.
On completion of the course, students graduate with a BTEC International Level 3 Specialist Award in Artificial Intelligence, a globally recognised qualification.
Grade 9 student Inaya commented, ‘I’m excited because it’s in line with what I want to do in the future. I want to work in the environmental sector, and I can see how AI could revolutionise sustainable practice, by sorting recyclables in our trash, for example. That would be a really great thing for people and for the planet’.
As a school which goes by the motto of ‘doing things differently’, for BWA the integration of innovative technologies is part of a wider initiative to offer a uniquely broad, customisable curriculum for its students. Hundreds of Pathway options are available at the school, ranging from classes to develop tech skills like Robotics & Coding, to practical learnings in Financial Literacy and Lifesaving, and embracing traditional approaches alongside the modern, for example Musical Theatre and Digital Music Production, or Journalism and Creative Media.
Alongside the Pathways, before and after-school (8am-9am & 4pm-5pm), Bloom Enrichment Learning Activities (BELA) are available, giving children the opportunity to study and specialise in an even richer variety of subjects, whether that be Iranian or Eco Studies, Photography or Basketball, and including an AI & Robotics BELA.
Bloom World Academy is a progressive international school for ages 18 months (about 1 and a half years) – 18 years, authorised to provide all the renowned International Baccalaureate programmes and based on a state-of-the-art campus in Al Barsha South.
The school has brought several ‘firsts’ to the UAE, including a later start to the school day, which runs from 9am-4pm. To find out more about their unique offerings and admissions process,