Cheadle Hulme School welcomed pupils, parents and industry leaders for an evening of discussion and debate at Let’s Chat Tech: AI and the Future of Work, an event designed to demystify careers in tech, data and AI and help young people approach a fast-changing world with confidence and curiosity.
The panel, made up of current parents and Old Waconians working at the forefront of AI, data, technology and policy, offered pupils and families an opportunity to hear first-hand how careers in these fields are evolving and, crucially, how many future roles do not yet exist. Throughout the evening, speakers challenged common assumptions about “tech careers”, emphasising that there is no single pathway and that the most valuable skills remain deeply human: curiosity, creativity, judgement, communication and adaptability.
Discussions explored the ethical responsibilities that come with powerful technologies, the importance of addressing bias in AI systems, and the need for clear guardrails as innovation accelerates. The panel also highlighted the breadth of opportunity across sectors from space medicine and neuroscience to law, business and social impact, reinforcing that careers in tech are not narrow, linear or limited to a particular “type” of person.
Caroline Dunn, Senior Deputy
“What stood out most was the optimism in the room. While there is understandable uncertainty, and even fear of AI, that uncertainty is replaced by curiosity when young people are given the space to ask questions and hear from those shaping the future. AI is a powerful disruptor, prompting important conversations about what we teach, how we assess, and how we prepare pupils for a world where humans and technology increasingly coexist.
Our role as a school is to engage openly with both the opportunities and implications of AI, emphasising ethical and responsible use, and ensuring pupils become thoughtful stewards of technology. At Cheadle Hulme School, AI is not about replacement but enhancement, and we take seriously our responsibility to prepare pupils not just academically, but holistically, for the future”.
The event was hosted by Aaron Saxton, a friend of CHS who guided the conversation and audience questions. He commented:
“The curiosity and confidence shown by the pupils alongside the thoughtful, sometimes challenging questions from parents was incredibly encouraging. Young people don’t need all the answers yet; they need role models, permission to explore, and reassurance that it’s okay not to have a linear plan. Events like this help create that space.”
The evening concluded with informal conversations between students, parents and panellists.
Let’s Chat Tech is part of Cheadle Hulme School’s wider series of careers events designed to produce ‘future-minded, world-ready’ pupils, who are well prepared for life beyond CHS.
View the full gallery here: Let’s Chat Tech event.
