A Vale of Glamorgan school has been named the UK’s most innovative for its cutting-edge use of artificial intelligence in education.
Westbourne School in Penarth, received the 'Best Use of Education Technology' award at the Independent Schools of the Year Awards 2025, recognising its pioneering approach to integrating AI, neuroscience, and global collaboration to improve student outcomes.
Central to Westbourne’s success is KnowVa Coach, an AI-powered revision tutor co-developed with Cardiff University’s neuroscience department and Qinect.
Stuart Ayres, vice principal of Westbourne School, said: "This isn’t about replacing teachers - it’s about giving them superpowers.
"KnowVa Coach allows us to personalise learning for every child in a way that was simply impossible before."
The teacher-led AI system uses real-time feedback and Socratic questioning to deepen students’ understanding of academic concepts.
Early trials at Westbourne showed more than a 30 per cent improvement in student attainment, equivalent to an increase of nearly two grades.
In 2025, the school recorded some of its highest-ever results, with 95 per cent of sixth form students achieving A*-B grades, and 91 per cent reaching the same benchmark at GCSE.
The school’s approach extends beyond AI.
Its Global Classroom initiative uses holographic teacher technology to deliver live, interactive lessons across its campuses in the UK, Singapore, and Sydney.
Mr Ayres said: "Our students are growing up in a world where AI is the future – and so they need to be masters of it.
"We are preparing them not only to thrive in that world but to shape it."
Westbourne now plans to make its AI tools available to schools nationwide.
Mr Ayres said: "KnowVa Coach, and the technology behind it, is set to revolutionise the education space.
"After a successful launch with our students here at Westbourne, we are now working on supporting other schools to use this game-changing technology, so that more students can benefit and see higher grades."
Students have praised the tool for making revision more interactive and effective, helping them build confidence and improve performance in key subject areas.
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