Riding the Coming Wave –
How AI will Reshape Education
Insights from the webinar
AI is no longer on the horizon – it is here!
In the first session of AI in Schools by AMCIS, in association with Marketing Advisers for Schools & the DES Platform, The Coming Wave co-author Michael Bhaskar outlined how artificial intelligence is accelerating into every aspect of life, including education. His thought-provoking insights set the stage for how schools must adapt to this rapid technological change or risk being swept away.
This webinar kicked off a 4-part series designed to help schools not only understand AI’s impact but also practically apply it in marketing and admissions.
Introduction: Understanding the Wave
Michael Bhaskar, author of The Coming Wave, framed AI as a powerful, inevitable force transforming society.
This session was chaired by Dr. Helen Wright, with panelist contributions from David Milner (Director of Marketing, Sedbergh School and AMCIS Co-Chair), Nick Richardson (Director of MA for Schools & the DES Platform) and providing practical perspectives on how schools can prepare for AI.
The first webinar sets the tone for the series, with upcoming sessions diving deeper into AI’s role in school marketing, real-world applications, and case studies.
(1) The Coming Wave of AI:
A Tsunami of Change in Education
Michael Bhaskar painted a compelling picture of AI as a wave with multiple crests – each representing rapid advancements that are reshaping industries. Education is no exception.
- The launch of ChatGPT marked a turning point, accelerating public adoption of AI.
- Bhaskar predicts that AI teaching companions will become a reality in classrooms within the next 2-10 years.
- Schools must recognise AI not just as a tool but as a new infrastructure, comparable to electricity – invisible but foundational.
“At some point in the next 2 to maybe 10 years, every single student will basically have a kind of AI teaching companion that follows them on their educational journey.” – Michael Bhaskar
(2) Opportunities and Risks: Navigating the Wave
Bhaskar warned that while AI offers immense opportunities for productivity and innovation, it also brings significant risks.
- Opportunities: Personalised learning, operational efficiency, and enhanced engagement.
- Risks: Data privacy, ethical boundaries, and potential misuse.
- Schools must balance adopting AI while safeguarding students and maintaining educational integrity.
“AI is slowly chipping into all of these areas, but it’s not necessarily fully connecting or fully visible yet.” – Michael Bhaskar
(3) Building Trust and Setting Boundaries with AI
Dr. Helen Wright emphasised that schools must approach AI adoption thoughtfully and responsibly.
- AI should never blur the line between human and machine interactions in education.
- Transparency in AI use is critical to maintaining trust with parents, students, and staff.
“Hardly a day goes by without someone talking about AI. We need to understand it deeply and thoughtfully.” –
Dr. Helen Wright
(4) Practical Perspectives:
AI in Marketing and Admissions
David Milner and Nick Richardson discussed how AI can already support school marketing and admissions.
- AI tools can streamline content creation, automate repetitive tasks, and improve decision-making.
- However, authenticity must remain at the core of school marketing.
“AI chatbots could help admissions, but schools need to ensure human touch-points remain – especially when parents are making one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives.” – David Milner
(5) Preparing for the Next Wave: Practical Actions for Schools
Bhaskar and the panelists offered practical steps for schools to begin their AI journey:
- Start Small: Introduce AI tools in non-critical areas (e.g., marketing automation, admin tasks).
- Form AI Committees: Cross-departmental teams to explore AI use responsibly.
- Engage Stakeholders: Involve parents, staff, and governors in discussions on AI policies.
- Safeguard Data: Ensure compliance with privacy and safeguarding regulations.
Bringing It All Together
Conclusion: Riding the Wave or Being Swept Away?
Michael Bhaskar’s insights left no doubt: the wave of AI is already here, and schools must decide whether to ride it or risk being overwhelmed.
AI is set to transform education – but only if schools act now. This webinar is just the beginning. The upcoming sessions in this 4-part series will provide practical strategies, real-world applications, and school case studies to help schools not only survive but thrive in the age of AI.
Your Call to Action:
To support your school’s AI journey, we’re offering:
- Access the Recordings & Resources:
View the Round up support page. - A Free Brand Strategy Review Report – Leverage AI-driven insights to refine your school’s brand strategy. Click here.
- 14-Day Free Trial of the DES Platform – Explore the all-in-one digital marketing tool for the management and reporting across your channels. Book a Demo to see how DES can help your school together with its AI features.
The Digital Empowerment Solution (DES) platform, with built-in AI, supports schools in saving time, driving engagement, and ultimately helping to build stronger connections with prospective families. With delighted schools already onboard, DES is a proven way to simplify and enhance your digital marketing efforts.
Next Steps: Start Your AI Journey Today
Continue the AI learning Journey…
For those of you that might like to continue the AI journey, together with the various speakers from the series, please do register your interest to join the AI in Schools Group – coordinated by MA for Schools for marketing & admissions – Register Here
