We’ve been shortlisted for AMCIS 2026 IMPACT Award

Loughborough Schools Foundation has been shortlisted for AMCIS 2026 IMPACT Award following proactive response to rising risk of AI manipulation and online exploitation.

Loughborough Schools Foundation’s sector-leading approach to the use of pupil images across digital channels has been recognised with a shortlist nomination for a AMCIS 2026 IMPACT Award in the Branding category.

At the start of the academic year, the Foundation announced a move away from using close-up, full-face images of pupils when promoting its schools. This decision followed an announcement by the Home Office that new legislation would be introduced to “protect children from predators generating AI images”, alongside data showing a significant annual increase in reports of AI-generated child sexual abuse material.

Chris Staley, Chief Executive Officer of Loughborough Schools Foundation, said: “The threat of the manipulation of online images, particularly when children’s faces are clearly shown, is growing at a frightening rate. We have put the online safety of our pupils first by taking a positive, proactive approach across our schools.

We continue to celebrate the achievements of our pupils, but do so while protecting them from the risk of image misuse. I am delighted to see this work recognised by AMCIS, and I would expect to see a wider shift across the sector in the coming months to address this challenge.

The Foundation now uses a more varied and creative approach to its visual identity and story-telling, building in illustrations and iconography alongside safe photography.

Award winners will be announced at the AMCIS Annual Conference in May.