How to Integrate AI in Everyday Teaching 

The digital landscape in education is an ever-changing entity that is being shaped by technological advancements and cultural shifts. What we think of as ‘cool tech toys’ today, like virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI), are becoming as essential to learning as books and pencils, writes Adil Hussain, digital teacher at Keighley College.  

 In the further education classroom, the role of technology has long since become pivotal in shaping the teaching and learning experiences of educators and students. But with the number of emerging technologies and the rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI), we have come a long way in a very short time in what feels like a whole new transformation of our work.  

  Over the past 12 months, I have been exploring and utilising AI in different ways in the classroom and have seamlessly incorporated it into my everyday teaching practices. Leveraging a range of tools to help me organise, plan and teach my students has not only changed the way I teach, it also underscores the immense potential AI holds for the whole sector. 

Bringing simple ideas to life 

At the heart of my approach is Scribble Diffusion, a powerful tool catering to my Level 1 students studying English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) and foundation courses. Through this platform, students are encouraged to sketch a drawing and provide a prompt, showcasing how powerful generative AI is and how it brings their concepts to life. 

For example, the students were tasked with sharing a word to develop a narrative. This was further developed through Scribble Diffusion as a photo story. As a result, it not only boosted their confidence but also put their language and creative skills to the test, stimulating creativity and nurturing a deeper understanding of visual representation. 

Fostering innovation and creativity 

As a games design tutor, I have found the use of Leonardo AI helpful in fostering creativity and problem-solving skills among my Level 2 and 3 students, enhancing their ability to develop innovative and engaging game concepts. This free, token-based generative AI tool is versatile across various vocational courses, demonstrating its potential to cultivate a wide array of skills. 

I have also been utilising Quizalize which has become my go-to resource for creating engaging quizzes – particularly useful for new starter/student activities or session recaps. The integration of ChatGPT within Quizalize has helped me streamline the quiz creation process, showcasing the collaborative potential between educators and AI to enhance teaching methodologies. 

Streamlining processes for efficiency 

Another area I have been exploring is TeacherMatic, which has rapidly become an essential tool to streamline my workload. By automating routine tasks and providing easy access to educational resources, it has allowed me to focus more on instructional activities and student interaction.  

However, while it holds promise in reducing the burden on educators and has the potential to become effective if developed further, its widespread integration across educational institutions is yet to be fully realised. Gillian Keegan may be pinning her hopes on AI to reduce workload, but there is a long way to go to make this a reality. 

 In addition to all these tools, I have of course also invested in ChatGPT 4. Its personalised prompts feature sets it apart from the free version. Customisation will be significant in maximising AI’s effectiveness in the classroom and meeting diverse needs, but the cost implication is certainly something policy makers need to be aware of. 

Soft skills are vital in our day-to-day interactions and perhaps even more so in the working world. As a result, I have recently explored an app called Body Swaps for soft skills training. This innovative tool utilises VR to simulate interviews, providing individuals with a unique opportunity to refine their interpersonal skills. 

AI has revolutionised the way I work, making my teaching more personalised, efficient, and responsive, both in my day-to-day activities with students and in how I plan lessons. It has helped me facilitate seamless communication and resource sharing among my peers and students, fostering a community of continuous learning and professional development. 

All of which is truly beneficial for early adopters like me. (And there’s no reason you can’t become one too very quickly, no matter how inexperienced you feel.) The challenge now is to make this revolution systemic. 

Adil Hussain, digital teacher, Keighley College.  

Gold medal for welder Harry

One of our apprentices is celebrating being crowned the winner of a national skills competition.

Harry Pullan, who works for Byworth Boilers, triumphed at the finals of WorldSkills UK.

The 23 year old was one of just ten welding apprentices from around the country who made it through, after excelling in the regional heats, to the event’s ultimate stage.

Speaking after outperforming his competitors to win the gold medal, he said: “All I can say is that it’s been unreal to be able to compete, let alone win!

“I never thought I’d be quite good enough, but the support I received from college, work, family and friends has helped massively and I cannot say ‘thank you’ enough.

“I’m very grateful for everyone around me, and work has been great – my boss and managers were congratulating me all morning when I got back.”

A deserved win – and a proud day

Harry’s tutor, Adam Sutcliffe, was instrumental in giving him the self-belief to enter the competition.

He said: “Harry is a cracking lad who fully deserves the win, and anything that might come as a result!

“He has worked hard ever since he started his apprenticeship with us just over four years ago and myself and his previous tutors, Ash and Simon, are really chuffed for him.

“For a kid who is fairly quiet – and at one point, during the training for the previous round, told me he ‘wasn’t good enough’ –  to settle into it, work hard and go on to win the title says so much about his attitude. He should be immensely proud of himself.

“It is moments like this that make the job worthwhile – seeing your students develop and achieve. This is a proud moment for Keighley College!”

Harry, who is in the final year of his apprenticeship, took part in the national finals of WorldSkills UK 2023 between November 14-17.

More than 400 of the country’s best apprentices and students competed – demonstrating their expertise across a whole range of industry skills – at educational venues across Greater Manchester.

New survey shines light on the benefits of college

It’s official – going to college helps you land your dream job.

That is one of the key findings from a new national survey of 1,000 alumni across the UK – including former students based in Bradford and Keighley.

We commissioned the research to shine a light on the many benefits of a college education, and are publishing the results to help celebrate Colleges Week.

Seventy percent of those asked told researchers, Perspectus Global that college had helped them get the career they wanted, while an overwhelming majority – 93% – would recommend college to others.

College-goers also reported going on to earn good wages in their post-study careers, with just over half (52%) now being on annual salaries of between £25,000 and £45,000 – and 14% earning more than £50,000. Those figures compare favourably with both the UK’s (£33,000, in this Statista report) and Yorkshire and the Humber’s (£30,000) median annual salaries for 2022.

Nearly half of those surveyed, meanwhile – 47% – now hold managerial, supervisory or directorial positions.

A path to secure an exciting future

Our Principal, Kevin O’Hare said: “These findings show how college education is helping so many people learn new skills to open up fresh opportunities and land exciting jobs in the areas that inspire them.

“We have so many talented people, of all ages, whose skills, and ambitions, are equally well served through pursuing technical and vocationally focused courses, such as T Levels, Higher Technical qualifications and apprenticeships, rather than taking the university or more traditionally academic route.

“Colleges like ours in Keighley and others across the country are working closely with employers to ensure we can offer such students fantastic opportunities to earn real-world experience of their chosen industries, including manufacturing and engineering, while they’re studying.

“As this research clearly demonstrates, this approach is really reaping rewards in terms of getting people into the jobs they want across so many sectors – and in many cases leading to well-paid, senior roles.”

The survey reveals that college opens up career opportunities across a wide variety of fields, ranging from manufacturing and engineering, healthcare and IT to hospitality, science, education and law.

Opening up opportunities in all kinds of industries

The majority (50%) of those asked cited ‘to learn a skill to set them up for their career’ as the main reason they had chosen to go to college, though many (37%) also said their choice was down to a love of learning.

Learning new skills and gaining real-life work experience was what most respondents (48%) said was the best thing about their college experience.

For more details on Colleges Week 2023, which runs from 9-20 October this year, visit aoc.co.uk/love-our-colleges/colleges-week

*The photograph shows Alex Johnson who has flourished at specialist engineering firm, Produmax thanks to her Keighley College apprenticeship.

What to expect on results day at Keighley College

GCSE results day is fast approaching and we hope you’re looking forward to the next steps in your education journey. 

We understand that waiting for your GCSE results can also be a little daunting. The most important thing to remember is you made it to the end and you should feel proud of the work you put in. And, whatever your situation, there is always a solution.

We’ve pulled together a quick guide on what to expect on the day and what to do if you don’t get the results you hoped for.

How to prepare for GCSE results day

Hopefully you are feeling eager and excited to receive your results, but it can also be natural to feel anxious ahead of the day.Speaking to your parents, carers or friends about any worries  can help. Remember, you are not alone.

If you are unsure about when you can pick up your results, or have not received an update, you should get in touch to tell us when you would like to come in.

You may want to think about whether you’d prefer to collect and open your results with your parent(s), with a group of friends for moral support, or on your own if that would make you feel more comfortable.

What will happen on results day 

Your results will be emailed to you. However, campus will be open from 9am for anyone wanting to pick up their results in person or talk about next steps.There will be staff on campus so head to reception and they will direct you to where you need to go.

If you do not receive your results via email, contact your teacher. 

What happens after GCSE results day/what are the next steps?

Appealing a GCSE grade

If you want to query your grade(s) – speak to your teacher in the subject or the head of department. They can request that the exam board reviews the marking of your exam entry.

If you need certain grades to get into a college or sixth form and you missed these, speak to your tutor as soon as possible to find out about what options are available to you.

There are many post-16 options available. These can include:

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are an opportunity to earn while you learn. You will also get a nationally recognised qualification at the end of it. Apprentices are employed from the word go and you will get support from a company that is committed to your development.

BTECs

BTEC qualifications are a great alternative route to university and focus on practical courses. They are an opportunity to gain a qualification in an area you might be interested in pursuing a career in.

These courses are assessed on an ongoing basis through a mixture of coursework and exams.

A levels

A levels are the traditional route to higher education, allowing learners to specialise in a range of subjects. They aren’t just for university – they’re also respected qualifications to have for on-the-job training, a higher apprenticeship and for work.

T Levels

T Levels are  new, two-year qualifications focused on developing the practical skills employers look for.

T Levels will help you learn industry skills, prepare you for work, further training or further study. You will also have the opportunity to do a work placement.

Work Experience

The college Careers Service is here to help you make those important decisions and to help you plan the next steps towards your future. From applying to work, a college course, an apprenticeship or working out your interests, skills and aspirations, our careers advisers can provide you with the information, advice and guidance you need.

Can you retake GCSEs?

Yes you can. If you didn’t get the grades you wanted, you can always look at retaking them alongside a college course. Have a discussion with your teacher, who will be able to advise you.

What if you’ve done better than expected?

If you’ve done better than expected, congratulations! This is  an opportunity to look at all your options and what you might want to do next.  

If you have any questions about your results, speak to your teacher.

Don’t forget, you can also make the most of our Student Information Hub, where you’ll find information on work experience, careers and industry placements.

Skills competition final for apprentice Harry

‘A huge achievement!’.

That is how one of our apprentice welders, Harry Pullan, has described reaching the finals of a national skills competition.

The 23 year old is one of just ten welding apprentices from across the country who will battle it out in the ultimate stage of WorldSkills UK this winter.

Harry, who is working for Keighley firm Byworth Boilers, earned his place after impressing the judges in the regional heats in July.

A morale-boosting confirmation

He said: “It feels unreal to have reached the final, but I am glad to see my efforts pay off! I love my job and to be part of the final ten in this competition just lets me know I’m in the right place.

“The qualifiers were a good experience because I met some lads from another company and was able to find out a bit about their work, and learn about a few different machines.

“Working as an apprentice has provided me with the best of both worlds because I get all the practical, on-the-job learning and then at college I learn all the technical knowledge and get my qualifications.”

Harry’s welding journey began when he was 19. He started his apprenticeship working for a firm that makes scaffolding towers and stillages, before moving to Byworth Boilers last summer.

Outstanding support

He said: “My knowledge and skills have increased so much since joining Byworth, and Keighley College is the reason I ended up there – and in the WorldSkills competition. I can’t say enough good things about the college; I owe a huge thanks to my tutor, Adam Sutcliffe, and my assessor, Ash Fieldsend, for their support.”

Apprentice welder Harry Pullan receiving his certificate, which earned him a place in the national finals, at the regional qualifiers of WorldSkills UK
Apprentice welder Harry Pullan receiving his certificate, which earned him a place in the national finals, at the regional qualifiers of WorldSkills UK

Tutor Adam encouraged Harry to push on in the competition when he had doubts. He said: “Harry is a top student, and has been since he started as a level 2 apprentice.

“He’s keen in the classroom and wants to learn and, practically speaking, he just loves to weld – and he’s very good at it.

“He is a cracking lad and is a pleasure to have in the group. We are all chuffed for him, and I think he will do well come finals day.”

Looking ahead to a bright future

Harry will be one of more than 400 students and apprentices – competing in 51 skills ranging from digital construction to health and social care – taking part in the WorldSkills UK finals in November.

He added: “All I can do in the final is focus, work and get my tasks done. If I get a podium finish then I’ll be over the moon, but even if I place last I’ll be happy because to be in the top ten is already a huge achievement for me.

“As for the future, I’ll have to wait and see because I am very happy at Byworth but, at the same time, I would love to weld all over the world.”

The WorldSkills UK finals will be held at colleges, independent training providers and universities across Greater Manchester from November 14 – 17.

Keighley College prepares adults to retrain with free courses

We are offering adults a wide range of free courses that will help learners upskill or retrain in growing sectors in the region, such as  health, digital, and science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects.

According to a report by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, around two-thirds (65%) of employers have upskilling needs in the region, driven by new working practices, new technology / equipment and regulatory requirements. 

It has also been reported that 32% of people have no qualifications in Keighley compared with 26% across West Yorkshire. The college will be using its free course provision to address the skills shortages and boost opportunities in the district.

With new technologies, accompanied by demographic and environmental change, the demand for people to retrain or upskill has heightened. As such, skills that include critical thinking and problem solving – which complement the new technologies – will become increasingly important in the future.

Kevin O’Hare, Principal at Keighley College, said: “We are witnessing a transformation in technological advancements. While the growth of technology offers the possibility of developing new skills, it will also come with the displacement of different types of jobs.

“As educators, we play a key role in adapting to the changing landscape and help learners develop in-demand skills. Gaining a Level 3 qualification can boost income, help people stand out and gain skills that employers value.”

“At the heart of the college’s skills agenda is ensuring that young people and adults are getting the very best education. Through these free courses, we are giving adults, particularly those with no qualifications, the opportunity to gain  one in an area they are interested in or for them to retrain for another career.

For more information on the free courses available, visit Keighley College.

Keighley College hosts a ‘Peace Meal’

Keighley College will be hosting a ‘peace meal’ on Thursday 22 June, where staff and students can share their stories over a delicious meal provided by Bab Tooma, an authentic Syrian restaurant.

There will also be a performance of multilingual poetry by poet and writer, Nabeela Ahmed and students will have the opportunity to take part in their workshop. 

Visitors will also be able to hear about Keighley College’s work as a designated College of Sanctuary as well as view a video and quilt created by its ESOL students.

There will be an opportunity to make donations on the day to the Keighley Good Food Project; or you can donate here. 

Keighley College emerges victorious in Planet Earth Games Competition with remarkable Sustainable initiatives

Keighley College is proud to have been crowned the overall winner of this year’s Planet Earth Games Competition. The nationwide event showcased students’ incredible creativity and innovation and tasked them with coming up with environmental activities that truly make a difference.

As part of the challenge, colleges in Yorkshire organised activities based around vital sustainable themes – carbon reduction, connecting to nature, food, waste reduction, conservation, energy and travel, to name a few.

Our students’ amazing creations range from constructing an indoor greenhouse using recycled bottles and timber offcuts to crafting a suit of armour from waste metal.

Cristopher Nichols, Student Engagement Officer, said: ‘’I am so proud of our students, who did a brilliant job of fulfilling the competition’s brief. Their fantastic efforts made them worthy overall winners of this important national award.”

Fostering engagement within the wider community

The hard work displayed in organising these activities also fostered inclusivity and engagement within the community.

Students engaged in activities such as running a sustainable ”pay what you can” shop, stocked with donated clothes to help students during the cost of living crisis.

One of the students, Dylan Worsnop, helped by tutor Simon Davison, used leftover metal from his fabrication and welding course to produce a Spartan-style body armour and shield.

What began as a headpiece eventually evolved into a complete outfit.

Indoor greenhouse and armour created by students

A testament to our commitment to immediate environmental action

Principal Kevin O’Hare was delighted with the competition’s success.

He said: “Our students’ impressive efforts have shone a light on our college and our commitment to sustainable action, which includes becoming net zero by 2035. We’re looking forward to being presented with the Bamboo Trophy for this victory, and will be displaying it proudly on campus.”

Keighley College secures funding to boost district’s adult numeracy skills

We’re delighted to announce that we’ve secured funding through the Department for Education-led Multiply programme to enhance adult numeracy skills in our district.

With this financial support, we’ll be able to assist adults in our area who don’t have a Level 2 qualification – roughly equivalent to a GCSE grade 4, or the old C grade – in maths. The aim will be to help them overcome their fear of the subject so they can thrive, personally and professionally.

The work will involve supporting learners through putting on new, flexible courses designed to fit around their lives, and training more staff to teach numeracy.

The focus will be on functional, rather than theoretical, maths to show how useful it can be in real-life situations ranging from budgeting for shopping to understanding borrowing, credit and interest.

A 2022 report found that more than half – 52% – of adults in West Yorkshire were at ‘entry level and below’ in terms of numeracy.

Keighley College’s Principal, Kevin O’Hare, said: “Numeracy is so important for all of us as we try to negotiate the daily challenges of education, life and work.

“Skills like budgeting are essential, especially now while we are facing a cost of living crisis, but many people find it  difficult.

“We are therefore delighted, as a college dedicated to supporting the community, to have secured funding to help local adults, in all walks of life, feel more confident in such areas.“

The programme will also open up new work and educational possibilities for participants, and take them a step closer to being able to benefit from further support such as the Lifelong Loan Entitlement.

Keighley College is already piloting a project that asks English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) students to take on tasks like banking or supermarket shopping.