The Nutshell w/e 17th January 2025

Dear Parents,

I recently came across a phrase in John Spencer’s article The Human Advantage: Nine Skills We Can’t Afford to Lose in an AI-Powered World that deeply resonated with me: wisdom in a sea of information. It reminded me why our work at Hazelwood is so important. In a world of AI-powered tools and instant answers, our people-centered focus is crucial. We aim to give children the chance to embrace challenges, experience productive struggles, and cultivate the empathy and understanding that lead to true wisdom.

Wisdom goes beyond facts and information- it’s shaped by experiences, reflection, and overcoming difficulties. While AI can teach us about tides or the Moon’s pull, wisdom is found in feeling the sea’s pull while swimming with friends, sharing laughter, and reflecting on these moments. At Hazelwood, we encourage children to learn through real experiences, helping them turn knowledge into wisdom. Sharing our own stories of struggle and growth with students demonstrates how resilience and reflection enrich our lives.

In today’s world, teaching children to harness AI effectively, while maintaining critical thinking and independence, is vital. At Hazelwood, we balance the benefits of technology with opportunities for students to build resilience, collaboration, and confidence. Challenging projects and moments of productive struggle help students discover their unique voices, navigate complexity, and embrace their human advantage in an increasingly AI-powered world.

This philosophy is why we’re excited to launch our next Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) projects, tackling real-world problems through creativity and teamwork. Throughout the year, you’ll have opportunities to see Hazelwood in action - whether at sports days, academic showcases, or the culmination of our SDG initiative. Our people-centered approach fosters wisdom, resilience, and connection, preparing our pupils to navigate life’s complexities with empathy and purpose. Together, let’s celebrate the incredible privilege of nurturing that makes us uniquely human.

Best wishes,

Lindie.

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