Cardiff Life Awards Finalist in Education & Technology

Education Finalist

With a reputation for academic excellence that has been cemented for 127 years, over the past year Westbourne has continued to develop a national – and increasingly global – reputation for trailblazing in education.

In this awards category, we have been shortlisted for our exceptional global links, including the launch of our global network of elite IB schools and the learning and personal development opportunities this provides for our students, allowing them to participate in global webinars, lessons and international exchange and residential trips.

We have also been recognised for commitment to STEM study, including the launch of our Innovation Hub, which will focus on lessons in coding, computer programming, engineering and 3D printing, as well as being home to our new electric racing car, currently undergoing work by students ready for racing in the Greenpower Racing series.

The past year has also seen the development of a future-focused Middle Years curriculum, which promotes the latest thinking in STEM and innovation, and supports Westbourne’s aim to develop globally-minded students who possess the skills to excel in the modern world, whilst also giving them a head-start for the GCSE years.

Our shortlisting also considers Westbourne’s approach to enhanced pupil wellbeing. We have expanded our extra-curricular enrichment programme, offering a broader selection of clubs and trips for all students and providing them with access to the best facilities in the local area. Clubs include climbing, sailing, horseriding, kayaking, skiing, yoga and ice skating, to name a few, as well as our thriving Saturday Sports fitness club.

Pioneering use of technology

One of the first schools in Wales to use artificial intelligence to support pupils, Westbourne uses AI technology to uplift the classroom learning experience and learning at home. Cutting-edge technology supports pupils to study more independently, developing advanced research skills and challenging them to think outside the box.

An online AI learning platform generates mini-lessons that students use to complement their studies, with limitless supplementary material in English, Maths and Science. One of the first schools in the country to use AI, students are supported to think bigger and bolder.

We have also adapted our classrooms to use digital dual displays and strategically-placed cameras to support students who cannot attend live classes, so they feel they are physically in the room.

Discover more about our award-winning approach