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The School of Allied Health was delighted to host our annual Practice Education Symposium on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, bringing together practice educators, clinical partners, researchers and leaders in their fields to explore the theme, “Empowering Educators: Demystifying AI and Simulation in Practice Education.” 

The day began with registration and networking with 72 attendees , the highest number of any symposium to date. This was followed by a warm welcome from Prof. Judi Pettigrew, Head of School of Allied Health, who set the positive tone for the collaborative event. The morning sessions focused on artificial intelligence in health and social care. Dr. Emma M. Smith, Associate Professor of Digital Technology in Health ��ɫ��Ƶ, delivered an engaging keynote, “Demystifying AI: What Practice Educators Need to Know,” offering practical insights into emerging technologies and their relevance to placement education. Deirdre Hyland from the Health Information and Quality Authority shared valuable perspectives on the development of national guidance for the responsible and safe use of AI in health and social care, while Dr. Gillian Ward of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists highlighted the leadership role required to shape AI-informed practice and education. An interactive workshop facilitated by the Practice Education Team at the ��ɫ��Ƶ encouraged participants to critically consider AI within the placement learning environment. 

The afternoon programme turned to simulation, with Esther O’Flaherty of the HSE National Simulation Office outlining national developments, followed by updates from the UL team. The closing “SimLab” workshop provided hands-on opportunities to design simulated learning experiences, ensuring participants left equipped with practical strategies to enhance student learning in an evolving digital landscape.

The Symposium committee will build on the learning from the event to explore and develop guidance on the use of AI during practice education placements to support both students and practice educators.