Education On Fire - Sharing creative and inspiring learning in our schools

In this first episode of a special 10-part series named Ger Graus Gets Gritty, Mark Taylor sits down with Professor Dr. Ger Graus OBE to launch an honest conversation about education and schooling.Following the release of Ger's book "Through a Different Lens: Lessons from a Life in Education" this series uses each chapter as a springboard for examining what's working—and what isn't—in our education systems.In this episode Ger shares his personal journey from a difficult childhood in the Netherlands to becoming a passionate advocate for experience-based learning. He reflects on how one transformative teacher changed his trajectory, the crucial differences between primary and secondary education, and why putting children at the centre of learning must be more than just rhetoric.This episode tackles the benefit of hindsight, the importance of storytelling in education, and why courage is needed to swim against the current of compliance-driven schooling.Key Quotes"If you're a teacher, just realize that 50 years from now someone will say your name... That's your responsibility, whether to say good things or bad things, nice things or not so nice things. That's in your gift and that's in your hands.""The minute you touch on an abstract in your lesson, the next thing that should happen is, comma, for example, the two most important words in that lesson. Because what that means is that you exemplify, you tell a story effectively, you take these children in mind and heart, you take them on a short journey.""What we have become is accountable to the system and not accountable to the child.""I think we need to make education and schooling and the connection between the two much more of a societal dialogue.""Children can only aspire to what they know exists."Takeaways:The podcast marks a significant milestone, celebrating ten years and 500 episodes, highlighting the journey of Education on Fire.Professor Dr. Ger Graus OBE's engagement signifies a collaborative effort to address pressing educational issues through meaningful dialogue.The series titled 'Ger Graus Gets Gritty' aims to promote positive change in education, focusing on the welfare of children and supportive learning environments.Listeners are encouraged to participate in the conversation and share stories that advocate for the well-being of children in educational settings.The podcast emphasizes the importance of community involvement in education, asserting that collective action is essential for fostering supportive learning experiences.The discussion raises critical questions about the current educational system, advocating for reforms that prioritize children's needs over economic or political agendas.Chapters:00:08 - Celebrating Milestones in Education01:09 - The Importance of Community in Education23:31 - The Importance of Storytelling in Education33:03 - Reflections on Childhood and Educationli...

Samantha Gourd from Country Space explains the profound benefits and opportunities presented by connecting educational institutions with British farms. The initiative aims to provide immersive, hands-on learning experiences for students, facilitating a deeper understanding of agriculture and sustainability.By engaging children in activities such as growing vegetables and caring for animals, the program not only enhances educational curricula but also fosters a lifelong respect for nature. The conversation underscores the critical role of primary education in shaping future citizens who appreciate the origins of their food and the importance of environmental stewardship. This dialogue serves as a clarion call for schools to embrace experiential learning beyond the confines of the traditional classroom.Takeaways:The conversation with Samantha Gourd emphasizes the critical importance of connecting schools with British farms to foster experiential learning opportunities for children.Through immersive workshops, students gain hands-on experience in farming, which cultivates empathy and respect for nature and sustainability.Samantha's initiative aims to address the pressing challenges faced by British farming, thereby ensuring food security and sustainability for future generations.Early exposure to farming and food production significantly influences children's values and perceptions about agriculture as they grow into adulthood.Country Space serves as a vital intermediary between educational institutions and farms, facilitating safe and enriching experiences that benefit both parties.The podcast underscores the necessity of integrating real-world experiences into the educational system to inspire future generations about the origins of their food.Chapters:00:00 - Connecting Schools to British Farms05:30 - The Importance of Agricultural Education09:40 - Understanding Food Education in Schools11:49 - The Impact of Nature on Well-Being19:49 - The Impact of Farm Visits on Education22:34 - Inspiration and Engagement in Educationhttp://www.country-space.co.uk/Countryspaceuk - to connect on social mediaFor all primary schools looking to join workshops on their Kent and Sussex farms - mention Education on Fire to get 10% offShow Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE) https://nape.org.uk/Find out more about their Primary First Journal: https://www.educationonfire.com/nape🔥 Discover more about Education on Fire and get a FREE pdf of 10 guest resources you can use to support learninghttps://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show – Buy me a coffee, Merch and Sponsorship Opportunitieshttps://www.educationonfire.com/support

Dr. Cynthia Rapaido, a highly accomplished educator, holds an Ed.D. in International and Multicultural Education and an M.A. in Educational Administration from the University of San Francisco. She earned her B.S. in Applied Arts and Sciences Biology from San Diego State University. With over 30 years of experience in K–12 education, she has served as a high school principal, assistant principal, and teacher, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the educational landscape across various schools and districts in California.Dr. Rapaido’s dedication extends to higher education, where she has contributed significantly as a faculty lecturer, dissertation advisor, and university field supervisor at esteemed institutions such as the University of California, Berkeley, University of San Francisco, and California State University, East Bay. Her passion for teaching, mentoring, and coaching educators is evident in her continuing role as an educational leadership coach and consultant. She also mentors graduate and doctoral students at her alma maters.Often actively engaged in research, Dr. Rapaido participates in academic peer review panels and presents her work at conferences, covering diverse topics within education and leadership. Her research interests include educational leadership, teacher education, school climate, diversity sensitivity, multicultural competency, social justice, emotional intelligence, and the impact of colonialism and imperialism.Dr. Rapaido was honored by the Filipina Women’s Network (FWN) in 2011 as one of "100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the United States". She was commended by the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) and received the "2013 California Secondary Co-Administrator of the Year" award. The following year, the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) recognized her as a finalist for the prestigious "Assistant Principal of the Year" award for the State of California, highlighting her outstanding, active, and front-line leadership.In July 2024, Dr. Rapaido published her first book, "Step Up Your School Leadership Game ~ The New Administrators' Guide ~ Lessons to Navigate Big and Small Challenges with Confidence and Purpose".Takeaways:Dr. Cynthia Rapaido possesses over 30 years of experience in K12 education, contributing to various roles.Her extensive career includes positions as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal in California schools.In 2024, Dr. Rapaido authored her first book, which serves as a guide for aspiring school leaders.She emphasizes the importance of mentorship for new educators and administrators entering the field.Dr. Rapaido advocates for building relationships with both students and parents to enhance educational outcomes.The podcast discusses the critical transitions students face from elementary to high school, highlighting the need for support.Chapters:00:02 - Introducing Dr. Cynthia Rapaido06:10 - Transitions in Education16:50 - Transitioning from Education to Writing

Marie-Claire Parsons is the project lead for Harry's Rainbow, a charity that support bereaved children in Milton Keynes. She has 30 years experience in schools culminating in founding a 6 school federation and being the executive headteacher. Marie-Claire has been a family liaison officer, education lead and beneficiary lead for the charity. She has just completed leading on an art project where 15 young people explored their grief through graffiti, entitled 'Grieffiti'! Harry's Rainbow offer activity based support groups to children bereaved of a parent or sibling, set up by Odette Mould MBE almost 15 years ago after the death of her son, Harry.Takeaways:Harry's Rainbow is a charity that provides vital support to bereaved children in Milton Keynes, having been established nearly 15 years ago following the tragic loss of a child.The charity organizes various support groups, which are activity-based, catering to children from ages 1 to 25, thereby fostering a sense of community among grieving families.Through collaborative artistic projects, bereaved children are encouraged to express their grief and emotions in creative ways, helping them to process their experiences.Understanding that grief is not linear is essential; people may experience a myriad of emotions simultaneously, which underscores the importance of having sensitive support structures in place.The role of educational institutions in recognizing and addressing bereavement among students is crucial, as ongoing support can significantly impact a child's ability to cope with loss.An urgent need exists for schools to implement bereavement policies and support systems that acknowledge the unique challenges faced by bereaved children and their families.Chapters:00:02 - Introduction to Harry's Rainbow08:09 - The Importance of Discussing Grief and Bereavement12:48 - The Importance of Support in Grief14:06 - Understanding Grief and Its Impact on Life24:54 - Understanding Bereavement in Schools34:13 - Supporting Children Through Grief and Loss44:31 - Understanding Grief and Support45:39 - The Stages of Grief: A Reassessmenthttps://harrysrainbow.co.uk/https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-harry-s-rainbow-charitable-trust/https://www.instagram.com/harrys_rainbow_/https://www.facebook.com/HarrysRainbow/Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE) https://nape.org.uk/Find out more about their Primary First Journal: https://www.educationonfire.com/nape🔥 Discover more about Education on Fire and get a FREE pdf of 10 guest resources you can use to support learninghttps://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show – Buy me a coffee, Merch and Sponsorship...

Jenna Udenberg is a lifelong resident from the Northshore of Minnesota and is a former music educator of 19 years. She has used a manual wheelchair since the age of 8 due to Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis. Jenna is a 2017 Blandin Foundation Community Leader, a 2020 Bush Fellow, and a 2025 Shannon Leadership Institute Fellow. Writing for the Lake County Press in her column, Local View from 4 foot 2, inspires vulnerability and the sharing of lived experiences from the seated perspective. Within My Spokes: A Tapestry of Pain, Growth & Freedom is Jenna’s published memoir which you can find on the A&BWU website, on Amazon or wherever you find your books. In her free time, you can find Jenna outdoors on paved trails or fishing with friends, playing board and card games, as well as coaching the Robo Dweebs, a LEGO robotics team. Jenna is the founder of the non-profit, Above & Beyond With U, which works to increase accessibility and inclusion in Minnesota and beyond.Takeaways:Jenna Udenberg emphasizes the importance of creating accessible and inclusive environments for all individuals.The principle of universal design plays a crucial role in ensuring equitable access to spaces and services.A significant aspect of Jenna's work is fostering conversations around disability and breaking down societal misconceptions.The sentiment that all humans have needs is central to Jenna's advocacy for kindness and understanding in community interactions.Jenna's experiences as a wheelchair user illuminate the barriers present in everyday environments and the need for thoughtful design.The phrase 'nothing for us without us' encapsulates the necessity of including disabled individuals in discussions about accessibility.Chapters:00:10 - Jenna Udenberg: A Journey of Resilience01:29 - Creating Inclusive Spaces: The Mission of Above and Beyond10:24 - Understanding Disability and Accessibility25:56 - Understanding Disability in Education32:51 - Reflections on Teaching and Growth Mindset37:18 - Empowerment and Resilience in Leadershiphttps://www.aboveandbeyondwithu.org/https://www.instagram.com/aboveandbeyondwithuhttps://www.facebook.com/people/Above-Beyond-With-U/100091881005060/https://www.linkedin.com/company/91173822Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE) https://nape.org.uk/Find out more about their Primary First Journal: https://www.educationonfire.com/nape🔥 Discover more about Education on Fire and get a FREE pdf of 10 guest resources you can use to support learninghttps://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show – Buy me a coffee, Merch and Sponsorship Opportunitieshttps://www.educationonfire.com/support

Victoria Lenormand is a former police detective turned holistic coach, Reiki master, and passionate advocate for alternative education and social justice. With a 28-year career in public service behind her, Victoria’s lens is both compassionate and sharp: she’s witnessed firsthand how institutions can sometimes fail those they claim to serve. Her journey took a transformative turn when her youngest son’s autism diagnosis revealed the flaws in rigid educational and medical systems. Choosing to home educate, she and her family embraced a life of flexibility, healing, and empowerment—living in a motorhome before settling in Scotland and exploring a more intuitive way of living. Her family’s transformation, sparked by a combination of diet, environment, and deep listening, revealed the healing power of choice and the cost of ignoring it.Today, through Gemini Directions, Victoria now works with families and individuals who feel stuck inside systems not made for them. Her work draws on training in wellness coaching, trauma-informed care, and energy work—but more than anything, it’s shaped by real-world experience: managing crisis with calm, asking better questions, making space when the default is to push through. Victoria speaks to parents at breaking point, professionals navigating burnout, and educators or policymakers open to doing things differently. Her conversations centre around those day-to-day quiet acts of courage: advocating for yourself, questioning “normal,” and moving toward something slower, more responsive, and often more effective.Takeaways:The value of a child is often revealed in the challenges they face, not just in their successes.When traditional education fails to meet a child's needs, parents must explore alternative educational paths.Creating a supportive community is essential for families navigating the complexities of education and special needs.Empowering children to take charge of their own learning fosters autonomy and encourages a love for education.Resilience is cultivated through overcoming challenges and learning to adapt in the face of adversity.The holistic approach to education recognizes the interconnectedness of emotional, physical, and academic well-being.Chapters:00:20 - Choosing to Withdraw: A New Direction06:20 - The Journey of Learning and Discovery08:23 - The Journey of Learning and Inclusion18:51 - Navigating Educational Change22:49 - Rethinking Education: Navigating New Possibilities28:20 - The Journey of Personalization in Learning34:45 - Navigating Educational Change and Personal Growth40:01 - The Importance of Community Support in Challenging Times42:38 - The Power of Resilience and Community

In the summer of 2024, Irise brought together a diverse group of young people from across the UK, alongside their allies and educators to directly inform a ‘Toilet Policy Toolkit’, to equip schools with the tools they need to create a Toilet Policy that works for everyone. https://www.irise.org.uk/uk-schools-toilet-policy-toolkitKelly Greenaway is phs Group’s period equality lead. Over the past nine years with the hygiene provider she has led a number of thought-leadership campaigns, which have eventually been sewn into the identity of the business. From tackling period inequality and campaigning for better access to period products for people in a variety of locations, to championing the need for dignified disposal for men, Kelly has put purpose at the heart of phs.Chrissy Cattle - CEO of Irise International Irise is an award winning, global leader in menstrual justice programming, policy and research. Takeaways: The podcast discusses a newly developed toilet policy toolkit aimed at enhancing period equity in schools. This toolkit was co-created by educators and young activists to address the issue of toilet access. Research indicates that many students face significant barriers when trying to access school toilets, including the need for permission and limited availability. The conversation emphasizes the importance of listening to young people's experiences and incorporating their feedback into effective policy-making. The podcast highlights the collaboration between organizations to drive change in menstrual health and hygiene education. Both guests underscore the necessity of improving toilet accessibility to support students' health and well-being during their menstrual cycles. Chapters:00:02 - Introduction to the Toilet Policy Toolkit04:55 - Understanding the Challenges of Period Equality in Schools09:46 - The Toolkit and Its Implementation20:09 - Advocating for Period Equity: Insights and Initiatives26:49 - Empowerment through Leadership ProgramsKelly Greenaway - phs Group https://www.phs.co.uk/ https://x.com/phsgroupChrissy Cattle - Irise International https://www.irise.org.uk/ https://www.instagram.com/irise_international/Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE) https://nape.org.uk/Find out more about their Primary First Journal: https://www.educationonfire.com/nape🔥 Discover more about Education on Fire and get a FREE pdf of 10 guest resources you can use to support learninghttps://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show – Buy me a coffee, Merch and Sponsorship Opportunitieshttps://www.educationonfire.com/support

David K Richards is the Founder & CEO of Changemaker Education, a national network of affiliate love-based microschools and an incubator for founders who want to usher in a new paradigm for the future of education. He is also the host of the Changemaker ED“U” podcast. Previously, he was Founder & CEO of Growth Public Schools, and a founding teacher and leader with Summit Public Schools where he launched several innovative schools. In addition he serves as a leadership and life coach. David has worked in education reform for over 25 years as a teacher, principal, executive, and board member. He lives in Sacramento, CA with his wife and his two children, and holds a BA from UC Berkeley and an MA from Stanford University.Takeaways: The traditional education system has remained largely unchanged, resembling a factory model that fails to meet the needs of modern learners. Microschools represent a transformative approach to education, empowering educators and communities to create personalized learning environments. The emergence of microschools arises from a growing desire for more intimate, love-based educational experiences that focus on social emotional learning. ChangeMaker Education aims to cultivate a network of microschools, emphasizing the importance of relationships and community involvement in fostering student success. In the face of societal shifts, such as the rise of the gig economy and the expansion of homeschooling, families are increasingly seeking alternative education options. There exists a significant demand for educational reform that prioritizes personalized learning and emotional development, particularly in light of ongoing advancements in technology and AI. Chapters:00:16 - Revolutionizing Education: The MicroSchool Movement01:04 - Introduction to Microschools and Educational Innovation13:50 - Transitioning from Educator to Entrepreneur16:30 - The Rise of Personalized Education22:59 - The Future of Education: Embracing Change and Choice31:18 - The Ripple Effect in Educationhttps://www.changemakereducation.com/Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE) https://nape.org.uk/Find out more about their Primary First Journal: https://www.educationonfire.com/nape🔥 Discover more about Education on Fire and get a FREE pdf of 10 guest resources you can use to support learninghttps://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show – Buy me a coffee, Merch and Sponsorship Opportunitieseducationonfire.com/support

Dr. Robin Harwick is the founder and director of The Pearl Remote Democratic High School—an international, online school reimagining education for youth pushed out of mainstream systems. A lifelong educator, researcher, and creator of healing-centered programs, she combines lived experience with academic rigor to disrupt the status quo. Her work champions self-determination, culturally affirming curriculum, creativity, and shared power. Whether she’s launching new models or mentoring others to do the same, Dr. Harwick believes the future belongs to those bold enough to build it, and that education should be a tool for liberation, not control.Takeaways: Dr. Robin Harwick emphasizes the necessity of making education valuable both in the present and future, ensuring students find relevance in their learning today. The Pearl Remote Democratic High School serves students who have been marginalized by mainstream educational systems, focusing on personalized and supportive learning environments. Effective education requires fostering emotional well-being alongside academic success, recognizing that students often struggle when pressured to conform to traditional expectations. Students at the Pearl experience a collaborative and democratic learning process, empowering them to take ownership of their education and engage actively in their learning journey. Chapters:00:00 - The Value of Education02:21 - The Importance of Personalized Education08:16 - The Importance of Multicultural Education17:41 - Understanding Student Engagement and Mental Capacity23:10 - Transitioning to Online Education28:16 - Transitioning to Personalized Learning34:10 - Creating Safe Spaces for Students34:59 - Transforming Education: The Role of Democratic Classrooms44:20 - The Shift from Compliance to Personal Growth in Education47:54 - The Power of Resilience and Hopehttps://thepearlhighschool.org/https://www.instagram.com/the_pearl_high_school/https://www.facebook.com/ThePearlHighSchoolShow Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE) https://nape.org.uk/Find out more about their Primary First Journal: https://www.educationonfire.com/nape🔥 Discover more about Education on Fire and get a FREE pdf of 10 guest resources you can use to support learninghttps://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show – Buy me a coffee, Merch and Sponsorship Opportunitieseducationonfire.com/support

Jez Alborough is the author and illustrator of over 45 books for children. His Eddy and the Bear trilogy (which began with the much loved WHERE’S MY TEDDY in 1992) has sold nearly four and a half million copies and was made into a Bafta award-winning animated television special and series.DUCK IN THE TRUCK (1999) heralded the start of another bestselling series, this time featuring the irrepressible Duck and his three friends - Frog, Goat and Sheep. There are nine books in the Duck series (1.3 million copies sold) including DUCK’S KEY WHERE CAN IT BE? which won the Child magazine Best of the Year Award.In 2000 Jez created HUG - a powerful and touching book of only three words about a baby chimpanzee called Bobo who loses his Mum. HUG was raved about by Oprah Winfrey on her show when she chose it for her recommended reading list while Richard Curtis (the writer and director of Four Weddings and a Funeral) selected HUG as one of his ‘Best Books’ calling it: ‘classic family drama which holds up well next to Jez’s other masterpieces.’ Bobo went on to star in three more classics; TALL (which along with HUG won the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Book Award), YES and PLAY. The series has sold around 2 million copies. Jez’s other books include SOME DOGS DO (2004) and the NAT THE CAT series (2013).Takeaways: Smiling is a contagious act, capable of spreading joy across vast distances. The journey of creativity often begins with a single idea that evolves over time. The relationship between an author and a publisher is crucial for a book's success. Illustration and storytelling are intertwined, where images and text complement each other. Learning is a continuous process that requires both patience and resilience from the learner. Inspiration can strike unexpectedly, leading to the creation of impactful works of art. Chapters:00:08 - The Ripple Effect of a Smile00:34 - Introduction to the Education on Far Podcast13:21 - The Journey of Creation: From Idea to Publication29:32 - The Intersection of Creativity and Technical Skill44:15 - The Power of Inspirationhttps://jezalborough.com/https://jezalborough.com/numberwondersgame/Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE) https://nape.org.uk/Find out more about their Primary First Journal: https://www.educationonfire.com/nape🔥 Discover more about Education on Fire and get a FREE pdf of 10 guest resources you can use to support learninghttps://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show – Buy me a coffee, Merch and Sponsorship Opportunitieseducationonfire.com/support

Kirsty Heap is an executive coach, keynote speaker, and neurodiversity advocate who helps individuals and organisations create environments where people can truly thrive. Drawing on her lived experience of dyslexia, she empowers business owners and leaders to understand their strengths, build confidence, and grow sustainably. Kirsty is also the author of Silent Snow, a picture book without words, designed to help you create your own stories with your children. Each page is filled with beautiful illustrations to spark your imagination, making storytime fun and personal. Whether reading has always felt tricky, or you just want to try something different, Silent Snow gives you the freedom to tell stories your own way.The idea for Silent Snow came from Kirsty's own experiences as a dyslexic parent. She used to find reading to her children difficult, and when she stumbled over words, she felt like she was letting them down. But instead of giving up, she started making up her own stories based on their lives and the little adventures they had. Bedtime soon became one of their favourite times of the day.Takeaways: The podcast emphasizes the importance of recognizing and nurturing the strengths associated with dyslexia, rather than merely focusing on the challenges. Kirsty Heap shares her personal journey as a dyslexic parent, highlighting her creative storytelling as a means of connecting with her children. There is a significant need for educational systems to adapt and provide personalized learning experiences for neurodivergent students. The discussion reveals how the implementation of technology, such as dictation software, can greatly enhance learning outcomes for individuals with dyslexia. Kirsty reflects on the profound effect of positive reinforcement and constructive feedback in fostering self-esteem among students with learning differences. The episode advocates for greater transparency and openness among educators regarding their own neurodivergent experiences to better support their students. Chapters:00:00 - Understanding the Weight of Expectations00:18 - Creating Stories from Imagination13:12 - Navigating Dyslexia: Challenges and Strategies in Education26:41 - The Importance of Personalized Learning39:55 - The Impact of Feedback in Coaching and Educationhttps://kirstyheap.com/https://kirstyheap.com/silentsnow/https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirstyheap/https://www.instagram.com/kirstyheapcoaching/Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE) https://nape.org.uk/Find out more about their Primary First Journal: https://www.educationonfire.com/nape🔥 Discover more about Education on Fire and get a FREE pdf of 10 guest resources you can use to support learninghttps://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show – Buy me a coffee, Merch and Sponsorship Opportunitieseducationonfire.com/support

Mashood Ahmad is the CEO and founder of Gigabit IQ, an award-winning UK broadband provider dedicated to delivering safer, smarter, and faster internet through fully managed Wi-Fi and industry-leading online safety tools. A recognised voice in digital inclusion and child online protection, Mashood is a Council Member at ISPA UK and a vocal advocate for stronger ISP accountability in protecting families online.Under Mashood’s leadership, Gigabit IQ has pioneered services like FamilyGuard+, a network-level parental control solution designed to meet the real-world needs of modern families. He has spearheaded initiatives supporting vulnerable communities, including children in care, refugees, and low-income households, through fair access broadband and safety education.Mashood is the author of the white paper “Beyond the Act: The Hidden Layer of Online Harm No One’s Regulating”, which challenges current UK online safety legislation and proposes a new national ISP Safety Rating System, akin to NCAP for cars or Ofsted for schools.A frequent speaker on digital safety, Mashood is leading an Online Safety & ISP Accountability session at the UK Internet Parliament Conference with ISPA, and continues to work with regulators, MPs, and safety groups to shape a safer digital future for all.Takeaways: The introduction of digital safety measures is akin to implementing seat belts in cars, enhancing Internet safety. Gigabit IQ aims to provide parental controls that ensure children access only age-appropriate online content. The company's initiative, Parent Line, offers parents guidance on navigating online safety and concerns. Faster Internet speeds necessitate enhanced safety protocols to protect children from harmful online content. Gigabit IQ advocates for industry-wide parental controls, empowering parents to safeguard their children online. Digital inclusion is essential; broadband should be accessible to all communities, regardless of their location. Chapters:00:17 - Digital Safety in the Age of the Internet01:41 - The Launch of Parent Line13:47 - Advocating for Online Safety in Broadband Services21:12 - The Importance of Granular Parental Controls28:33 - Digital Inclusion and Accessibility39:24 - Empowering Parents for Online Safetyhttps://www.gigabitiq.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/mashood-ahmad-gigabitiq/https://www.linkedin.com/company/gigabit-iqhttps://www.facebook.com/GigabitIQhttps://www.instagram.com/gigabit_iq/https://x.com/GigabitIQhttps://www.tiktok.com/@gigabitiqhttps://www.youtube.com/@GigabitIQhttps://bsky.app/profile/gigabitiq.bsky.socialhttps://mastodon.social/@GigabitIQhttps://www.parentline.ukShow Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE) https://nape.org.uk/Find out more about their Primary First Journal: https://www.educationonfire.com/nape🔥 Discover more about Education on Fire and get a FREE pdf of 10 guest resources you can use to support learninghttps://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show – Buy me a coffee, Merch and Sponsorship Opportunitieseducationonfire.com/support

Aurora Orchestra’s creative learning programme supports teachers to bring rich musical education and experiences to all children. The Aurora Classroom programme encompasses:digital resources for primary and secondary schoolsflexible cross-curricular resources for SEND settingstraining for teachers from our team of expertsworld-class programme of live activity for children and young people.Music at the heart of your primary schoolBring Aurora Orchestra into your classroom using our free music resources, designed for music specialists and generalist teachers alike. Explore our fully planned 10-week units of work or build your own music lessons from our library of hundreds of activities and audio excerpts.Supporting your teaching at KS3, GCSE and A levelAurora Classroom for secondary schools focuses on bringing high quality resources, films and audio excerpts together in one place – without the adverts and for free! Explore our teaching support materials for each Key Stage – from an introduction to the orchestra for KS3, to detailed set work resource packs for GCSE and A level music specifications.Build your own unique SEND programme Aurora’s inclusive and adaptable resources for children with additional needs enable teachers to build bespoke units of work by selecting activities from a number of learning strands:Live events for schoolsAurora Orchestra is a pioneering orchestra that creates concert experiences beyond the ordinary, introducing children to music in an innovative and exciting way.Takeaways: The Aurora Orchestra has made its educational resources completely free to ensure maximum reach and impact. The organization emphasizes the importance of integrating music education into the curriculum amidst challenges such as funding and time constraints. Aurora Orchestra's live programs are designed to engage children interactively, allowing them to participate in music through body percussion and singing. The orchestra has developed a series of resources called Aurora Classroom, which provides high-quality materials tailored for different educational stages. The importance of fostering creativity among teachers, particularly in primary education, is highlighted, as many teachers lack confidence in teaching music. Aurora Orchestra aims to expand its touring networks to reach diverse audiences and ensure music education is accessible to all children. Chapters:00:33 - Innovations in Music Education07:26 - Introducing Aurora Classroom: Resources for Music Education13:20 - The Transformation of Music Education Resources14:31 - Funding Models for Educational Programs23:07 - Breaking Down Barriers in Classical Music31:58 - The Life of a Modern Musician37:07 - The Importance of Music in Educationhttps://www.auroraorchestra.com/https://www.instagram.com/auroraorchestra/https://www.facebook.com/auroraorchestra/https://www.youtube.com/user/AuroraOrchestrahttps://www.tiktok.com/@auroraorchestrahttps://bsky.app/profile/auroraorchestra.bsky.socialhttps://www.auroraorchestra.com/people/jane-mitchell/Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE) https://nape.org.uk/Find out more about their Primary First Journal: https://www.educationonfire.com/nape🔥 Discover more about Education on Fire and get a FREE pdf of 10 guest resources you can use to support learninghttps://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show – Buy me a coffee, Merch and Sponsorship Opportunitieshttps://www.educationonfire.com/support

Dr. Jennifer Berry doesn't just talk about STEM—she redefines how student see themselves in it. As a leading voice in inclusive STEM education, Dr. Berry champions a powerful idea: STEM identity is not something students are born with—it's something they build. As the CEO of SmartLab, she is dedicated to bridging the gap between today's classrooms and tomorrow's workforce.Takeaways: Engaging students in hands-on learning experiences fosters both problem-solving skills and resilience in the face of failure. The integration of community involvement in educational ecosystems significantly enhances students' learning experiences and future opportunities. STEM identity is developed through numerous 'aha moments' that help students connect concepts meaningfully and deepen their understanding. Creating customized learning environments is essential for effective project-based learning, catering to diverse student needs and maximizing their potential. Students must be encouraged to embrace mistakes as vital learning opportunities that contribute to their growth and adaptability. Empowerment and resilience are crucial qualities that educators should foster in students to prepare them for challenges in a rapidly changing world. Chapters:00:30 - The Importance of Hands-On Learning05:52 - Building STEM Identity Through Aha Moments12:42 - Creating Custom Learning Environments in STEM Education20:00 - Community Involvement in Education28:59 - The Importance of Critical Thinking in an AI-Driven World36:40 - The Importance of a Human-Centered Approach39:46 - The Importance of Resilience and Empowerment in Educationhttps://www.smartlablearning.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/creative-learning-systems/Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE) https://nape.org.uk/Find out more about their Primary First Journal: https://www.educationonfire.com/nape🔥 Discover more about Education on Fire and get a FREE pdf of 10 guest resources you can use to support learning https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show - Buy me a coffee, Merch and Sponsorship Opportunitieshttps://www.educationonfire.com/support

Ben Case is part of the Tapestry education team and a former primary and early years teacher. He works closely with settings to support their use of Tapestry and believes tech is only successful if you bring staff with you. As a teacher Ben regularly presented at TeachMeet Sussex and he now helps to host the Tapestry podcast, writes for education publications, and features in many of the Tapestry training videos to support users. He is keen to share actionable insights and foster a positive, confident approach to using technology effectively in early years settings across the UK.Tapestry's annual survey had some interesting findings around the use of AI in the early years; engaging with families; and supporting families with ideas for play at home.More info about the survey: https://tapestry.info/tapestry-early-years-education-survey-2025-what-we-learnt/Tapestry has teamed up with award-winning Playworker Amber – aka Amber Ogunsanya-William – to collaborate on a project championing children’s freedom to play. The animation shares Amber’s story, and highlights provocations for play at home.https://tapestry.info/let-play-lead-the-day/Takeaways: The importance of centering the child in educational processes cannot be overstated, as their home experiences significantly influence their learning in school. Tapestry facilitates effective two-way communication between educators and parents, enhancing the overall educational experience for children. As AI tools become increasingly prevalent, it is essential to teach children to critically assess the authenticity of the media they encounter. Engaging parents in their child's learning journey is vital, as it fosters a deeper understanding of child development beyond mere participation in school events. The integration of play in education is crucial, enabling children to develop problem-solving skills while maintaining engagement in their learning. AI can be a valuable resource in lesson planning and child activity suggestions, but it should support, rather than replace, the educator's role. https://tapestry.info/https://www.instagram.com/tapestry_fsf/https://www.facebook.com/TapestryLearningJournalhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/eyfsben/Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Find out more about their Primary First Journal: https://www.educationonfire.com/nape🔥 Discover more about Education on Firehttps://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – How I record and produce this...

The AI maths tutor that gets pupils reasoning out loud.Third Space Learning believe an AI tutor should do more than just generate questions and mark answers.What if it could provide scaffolded support according to knowledge gaps, speaking to students and encouraging them to verbalise their reasoning as they go?What if every pupil who needs it could work through maths problems in this way for one fixed low cost?Meet Skye, the low-cost AI maths tutor built by expert maths teachersSkye mimics the behaviours of a pedagogically sound subject matter expert and prompts ensures responses are effective, adaptable, and focused on improving understanding and increasing confidence.Prompts are specified in detail for each slide, and use insights from thousands of maths tutoring sessions to teach concepts effectively, address common misconceptions and ensure Skye adapts the pitch and pace of the session and personalises the instruction to suit each learner.'Since 2013, over 4,100 schools have chosen Third Space Learning’s cost-effective one-to-one maths tutoring – giving them more time to focus on whole-class teaching and learning.We’ve used all the online tutoring insights we’ve gained in the last decade to create Skye, an AI maths tutor like no other.'Takeaways: The primary objective of our mission is to make effective tutoring accessible to underprivileged children, thereby assisting in closing the educational attainment gap. Utilizing artificial intelligence for tutoring can provide substantial scaling benefits while maintaining the essential requirements necessary for effective tutoring. Our tutoring programs are designed to be seamlessly integrated into school timetables, enhancing the overall learning experience and reinforcing classroom instruction. We have observed that the interaction between students and AI tutors fosters a low-stakes environment, encouraging children to engage more freely without the fear of judgment. Our approach focuses on high-impact tutoring, which necessitates a proactive and structured interaction rather than reactive responses to student inquiries. The transition from human to AI tutors is grounded in extensive research and data, ensuring that we continue to meet the needs of schools and students effectively. https://thirdspacelearning.com/maths-tutoring/ai-maths-tutor/https://thirdspacelearning.com/@thirdspacetweethttps://www.linkedin.com/company/third-space-learning/Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/🔥 Discover more about Education on Firehttps://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tipa...

Matt Dalio dreams of a world in which every kid has the resources to shape their own technology instead of being shaped by it.In 2011, he founded Endless which aims to provide universal access to technology and equal opportunities to succeed in the digital world by tackling three key challenges.Endless is harnessing the power of modern games to introduce youth to 21st Century skills like coding and design. Second, it is addressing the internet gap by creating technology that enables youth anywhere to have access to basic educational resources. And lastly, Endless is building a “pay as you go” laptop program making it so that billions more people can afford a computer.Collectively these unlock educational opportunities that allow everyone to be a creatorTakeaways: The average child dedicates approximately 10,000 hours to playing video games by the time they complete their education, an astonishing figure that underscores the pervasiveness of gaming in youth culture. In the last fifteen years, a significant trend in the gaming industry has been the shift towards creation, with platforms like Minecraft, Roblox, and Fortnite leading the way in empowering users to engage in content generation. The concept of transforming players into creators is pivotal; through this transition, youths acquire essential software development skills tailored for an increasingly digital, knowledge-based economy. Endless Studios aims to provide scalable educational solutions that are both affordable and accessible, particularly in communities with limited access to qualified educators, thereby breaking down financial barriers to learning. Feedback, especially peer feedback, plays a critical role in the learning process by providing valuable insights and support without the traditional costs associated with formal education. The future workforce will largely consist of individuals who possess robust digital skills, which are essential for navigating the complexities of an AI-driven world, making it imperative to equip youth with these competencies. www.endlessstudios.comShow Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/🔥 Discover more about Education on Firehttps://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – How I record and produce this show.a...

Professor Dr Ger Graus OBE will be joining me for a dedicated season based on his book - Through a Different Lens - Lessons from a Life in Education.We will discuss in more depth the 6 chapters:1. The benefit of hindsight and the lessons learned. This includes family influences, school experiences, teachers, being a teacher and being involved in The Children's University, Kidzania and travelling the world giving lectures, presentations and being a keynote speaker.2. Children can only aspire to what they know exists. I am a living example of this........I would not have been a professional musician and had the career I have had if not for my school experiences and opportunities.3. Thoughts about schooling and education - what is the difference? Education is 0-99 years.......how do we instil this understanding in our children? 4. Technology!!!!!!5. The role we play6. More than a school - measuring what we value not just subject exam results and league tables. We will then invite expert discussion about 3 key areas.Early Years - the current situation, what it can be, why it is important and views from around the globe.School - What is a school and why do children attend?Higher/Further education - How is this working today? What are the alternatives, is it fit for purpose, can they all survive the threat of closure from lack of funding.....does that matter? We will also have a LIVE show where you can get involved, ask questions and bring your views to the campfire. Be a fire lighter. Be part of the movement.Education on Fire - Feedback Inspiration Resilience EmpowermentWhy not listen to Ger's conversation with me on Ep 439 to get ready for the Ger Graus Gets Gritty Season.https://www.educationonfire.comhttps://www.gergraus.com

Today we highlight 10 previous episodes and the educational resources created or shared by my guests.These include:Reading Writing and Spelling with Jane ConsidineLet's Learn About Science with Dr. Stephanie RyanArtis Foundation - Integrating the arts throughout learningNurture Resilience, Empathy and Global Citizenship with LyftaSir Linkalot - Spelling AppWHO SMARTED? Hit children's podcast with Jerry KolberC.H.A.M.P.S Mentoring with Vondale SingletonSatchel - Online Teaching and Learning ToolMarvellousMe - Parent Engagement AppSteer Education - Whole School Mental Health PlatformYou can download the FREE pdf with links to all the websites at https://www.educationonfire.com/

In advance of our Ger Graus season which will be based on his book Through a Different Lens - Lessons from a Life in Education I have created a summary podcast of our previous conversation (Ep 439) using NotebookLM. This is as - described on it's website - 'the AI research tool and thinking partner that can analyze your sources, turn complexity into clarity and transform your content'.You will hear 2 AI voices discuss and summarise our conversation about Ger's book. Why do this? Partly as a quick recap before we start the Ger Graus season but also to help me understand what is currently possible with AI in advance of our Education on Fire LIVE Stream shows that will focus on AI in education.To keep up to date with everything we are doing and download our FREE top 10 resources pdf please visit https://www.educationonfire.com/