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I N D E P E N D E N T S C H O O L S S P E C I A L F E A T U R E "From digital tools that enhance research and presentation skills to creative applications in design and the arts, we see technology as a powerful tool for learning and expression," says Smita Karam, Junior School principal at Stratford Hall. "We want our students to leave Stratford Hall as thinkers, doers, leaders and lifelong learners." Learning at Stratford Hall goes beyond content to include actively shaping the world in innovative ways. The Stratford Hall Idea Lab, for example, is a flexible, collaborative space designed to spark design thinking, innovation and entrepreneurship. "Here, students can experiment with emerging technologies, tackle real-world challenges and develop creative solutions that connect learning across disciplines," Karam says. That focus on creativity and innovation extends into the Senior School, where principal Andy Wong aims to prepare students to navigate an ever-changing digital landscape with confidence, creativity and ethics. "This includes not only developing technical proficiency but also emphasizing digital citizenship, media literacy and responsible innovation," he says. "By blending digital tools with critical inquiry, we ensure our students are equipped to thrive in a world where technology is constantly evolving." AI is embedded throughout the school experience to support both students' learning and educators' work—but Wong emphasizes that the school is being thoughtful of how it is integrated. "Our goal is to help students understand how AI can support creativity, research and problem- solving, while also fostering discernment and ethical awareness," Wong explains. "Rather than replacing human insight, AI becomes part of the toolkit our students can use to innovate responsibly." Wong and Karam agree that the future of education lies in adaptability, inclusivity and relevance. They emphasize that education today goes beyond strong academics; it's also about equipping students to navigate uncertainty, embrace diversity and collaborate across cultures and disciplines—all within a compassionate community that nurtures curiosity, empathy and lifelong learning. "Independent schools, in particular, have the opportunity to be agile, integrating new technologies, strengthening community connections and ensuring that learning remains both rigorous and deeply human," says Karam. GLENLYON NORFOLK SCHOOL Change in education might be slow, but schools are adjusting the ways they accommodate students with different abilities, interests and pathways. "There's definitely an increasing shift towards personalization for students and a slow but deliberate move away from this one-size- fits-all model," says Jon Hamlin, director of technology, innovation and entrepreneurship at Glenlyon Norfolk School (GNS) in Victoria. As students search for more personalized learning opportunities, new emerging technologies like AI tools can assist them. "The introduction of large language model AI tools was a pivotal moment in education because all of a sudden, these tools were incredibly accessible to everyone," Hamlin notes. Now, schools are continuing to determine which tools are high-quality, safe and able to enhance learning. "It's all about augmentation and enhancement, not substitution," says Hamlin. Glenlyon Norfolk School

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