New Delhi: Artificial intelligence is reshaping the workforce, automating tasks across diverse industries such as manufacturing, customer service, healthcare, and transportation. In an unexpected move, Cottesmore School in West Sussex, United Kingdom, has introduced an AI robot named Abigail Bailey as its “principal headteacher.” Collaborating with an AI developer, the school designed Abigail with the explicit purpose of supporting the school’s headmaster.
Tom Rogerson, headmaster of Cottesmore, shared with The Telegraph that he leverages the robot for advice on various issues, including supporting staff members and assisting pupils with ADHD, as well as drafting school policies. The technology operates akin to ChatGPT, an online AI service, where users input questions and receive responses generated by the chatbot’s algorithms.
According to Mr. Rogerson, the AI principal is equipped with extensive expertise in machine learning and educational management, enabling it to analyze large datasets. Speaking to The Telegraph, he said, “Sometimes having someone or something there to help you is a very calming influence.”
“Being a school leader, a headmaster, is a very lonely job. Of course, we have head teacher’s groups, but just having somebody or something on tap that can help you in this lonely place is very reassuring,” he added.
Cottesmore School imposes fees reaching nearly £32,000 (equivalent to Rs 32,48,121) annually for UK students.
Recognized with distinctions like Tatler’s “Prep School of the Year,” this boarding institution caters to both boys and girls aged four to 13.