SIXTH Formers at Harris Academy Riverside made memories on Tuesday 24 February as they attended Microsoft's AI Tour at the Excel Centre.

It was an opportunity for computer science students who spent the day talking to AI experts and learning how AI is transforming the world around us.

Students attended short 'lightning talks' and saw demonstrations of AI working in practice. They also heard from two of the most senior people at Microsoft – Satya Nadella, Microsoft Global CEO, and Darren Hardman, CEO Microsoft UK and Ireland. The students were enthralled by their keynote speeches and came away inspired by what they had heard.

But the highlight of the day was a surprise meeting with former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak who is now a senior adviser at Microsoft. He spent some time discussing AI with the Sixth Formers and answering their questions.

Harris Academy Riverside Sixth Former Quyum Oladipupo said: "Meeting Rishi Sunak was the crowning of the entire experience. Having a face-to-face conversation with him was very helpful and was something I'll never forget."

Rachel Sofianos, Head of Academy at Harris Academy Riverside, added: "This was an incredible opportunity for our students. Not only did they get to hear from two of the most senior people at Microsoft but they also had a face-to-face discussion with Rishi Sunak!

"Our students spoke eloquently and articulately to the former Prime Minister asking intelligent and thought-provoking questions. They have taken a lot away from this experience and returned to the Academy brimming with ideas of how we can use AI to enhance learning here."