Escaping Reality: The ALPS Conference

I wonder what the words 'escaping reality' mean to you - lying on the beach on a tropical island? Maybe hiking or rafting in the mountains, admiring stunning views? Perhaps reading a book with a cuppa? Or maybe something completely different?

This was the theme that a group of Year 12 students explored at their ALPS conference at Verso Vineyard last week. For them, however, the focus was not on hiking or holidaying somewhere remote, but on escaping the reality of their mobile phones, which pervade every aspect of their lives.

Created as a conference by students for students, the event brought together over 250 Year 12s from across the Alban Learning Partnership Schools - Townsend, Marlborough, STAGs, Loreto, Nicholas Breakspear, and Samuel Ryder Academy.

It was a highly successful day, with each school’s student leadership team delivering sessions around the theme of the day. There were also opportunities to have fun together in the 'Fun Zone', where students could enjoy time on the inflatables, participate in an egg drop, or relax with some colouring, among other activities.

Students explored the pros and cons of AI in depth and challenged each other to 'escape' by spending time on their hobbies and passions, and by prioritising real-life relationships rather than focusing solely on communication via their phones. It was encouraging to see so many students presenting to their peers with confidence and skill. They had researched their topics well and demonstrated a refreshing awareness of the challenges posed by social media and AI.

It was wonderful to see students from all the schools collaborating so effectively, and there was a real buzz and sense of excitement throughout the day. Helena and Mr Tominey from Townsend deserve a special mention, as they worked tirelessly behind the scenes to help organise the event and ensure students had everything they needed - from prizes and eggs for the egg drop to inflatables, pens, and paper.

Overall, it was a really positive day, and it is exciting to think that this conference is now set to become an annual event in the academic year.

Amy :)