Edufuturists

In this episode of the podcast, we chat with the wonderful Gwyn ap Harri, the CEO of XP Trust, to explore innovative educational practices and the importance of character building in schools. One of Gwyn's schools, XP Gateshead won Edufuturists Secondary School of the Year 2025.Gwyn discusses the concept of 'crew' as a foundational element of XP Trust's approach, emphasising the need for a shared language and community engagement. The conversation goes down lots of rabbit holes into the significance of curriculum design that connects students to their local history and culture, fostering civic pride and a sense of belonging. He also shares insights on the future of education, advocating for a shift towards valuing character alongside academic achievements, drawing lots of inspiration from schools like High Tech High and Expeditionary Learning.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:06 Journey to XP Trust02:07 Inspiration from High Tech High07:00 The Concept of Crew in Education12:21 Building Relationships Through Crew17:15 Curriculum Integration and Expeditions22:17 Community Engagement and Education23:13 The Importance of Local Context in Education24:34 Empowering Working-Class Voices26:14 Dignity and Identity in Education28:51 Inspiring Change Makers30:57 Navigating Compliance and Creativity in Education34:36 Inevitability of Change in Education38:02 Humility and Impact in Educational Leadership40:23 Quickfire Questions and ReflectionsThanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you.Ben & Steve xChampioning those who are making the future of education a reality.Follow us on XFollow us on LinkedInJoin the WhatsApp CommunityCheck out all about EdufuturistsWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work?Get in touchGet your tickets for Edufuturists Uprising 2026

In this episode of the podcast, we welcome back Dan Fitzpatrick to discuss the evolving landscape of education in 2025. We explore the challenges and innovations in global education systems, the impact of artificial intelligence, and the need for strategic thinking to prepare students for the future. The conversation goes into the necessity of both revolutionary and evolutionary changes in education, emphasising the importance of innovation and adaptability in a rapidly changing world. In this conversation, we explore the evolving landscape of education, emphasising the need to rethink traditional metrics and the purpose of education. We discuss the concept of treating education as an infinite game, focusing on lifelong learning and personal development rather than merely preparing students for the workforce. The conversation also touches on the importance of decentralisation in education, the potential for innovation, and the role of community involvement in shaping a more holistic educational experience. Many of these themes are in Dan's upcoming book - Infinite Education - which you can preorder here. Thanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you. Chapters 00:00 Welcome to 2025: A New Year and New Beginnings 02:59 Dan's Journey: Insights from the Field 06:02 Global Perspectives on Education: Challenges and Innovations 09:08 The Future of Education: Shifting Paradigms and Strategies 11:58 Artificial Intelligence in Education: Opportunities and Threats 14:53 Navigating the Education System: The Need for Change 17:57 Speculative Design: Imagining the Future of Learning 21:02 Revolution or Evolution? The Dual Path of Educational Change 27:19 Rethinking Education Metrics 28:54 The Infinite Game of Education 31:14 Defining the Purpose of Education 32:41 Preparing Students for Life, Not Just Work 36:10 Decentralisation in Education 40:20 The Future of Educational Innovation 46:41 The Shift from Finite to Infinite Learning 50:34 Community Involvement in Education Ben & Steve x Championing those who are making the future of education a reality. Follow us on X Follow us on LinkedIn Check out all about Edufuturists Want to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work? Get in touch Get your tickets for Edufuturists Uprising 2025

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by Sofia Fenichell, the founder of Study Hall AI. The conversation explores Sofia's journey as an entrepreneur in the education sector, her passion for improving literacy through innovative AI solutions, and the importance of fostering agency and passion in learners. We discuss the challenges of traditional assessment methods and the need for a shift towards more engaging and effective educational practices. Sofia shares insights on the upcoming launch of College Co-Pilot, an AI-driven tool designed to assist students in the college admissions process. The episode concludes with our usual quick-fire questions too.Chapters00:00 Introduction 01:23 Sofia's Journey 04:59 The Passion Behind Entrepreneurship10:41 Introducing Study Hall AI14:54 AI with Guardrails for Safe Learning19:43 Fostering Passion and Agency26:06 Rethinking Assessment 29:30 The Future of Education and AI33:45 Navigating Assessment Grief36:35 Innovations in College Admissions40:22 Final Thoughts and Quickfire QuestionsFind out more about StudyHallThanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you.Ben & Steve xChampioning those who are making the future of education a reality.Follow us on XFollow us on LinkedInJoin the WhatsApp CommunityWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work?Get in touchGet your tickets for Edufuturists Uprising 2026

In this episode of the podcast, we chat with Matt Jessop, a primary school head teacher from the North West of England who have won our Primary School of the Year TWICE! We discuss the innovative approaches Matt is implementing in his school, particularly in integrating technology and outdoor learning. The conversation digs into the challenges facing the education system, including funding issues, accountability, and the need for systemic change. Matt makes a big point about the importance of engaging students in their learning and the potential of hybrid education models to better serve diverse learners. The discussion also touches on the role of big tech in education and the necessity for a curriculum that meets the needs of today's students.Chapters00:00 Introduction02:44 Matt's Journey and School Environment06:11 Innovative Approaches in Primary Education10:51 Challenges in Education Technology and Funding15:10 Accountability and the Education System20:22 The Need for Systemic Change in Education27:18 The Evolving Skill of Learning to Learn28:05 Navigating AI and Misinformation 30:12 The Need for Reform30:51 The Fractured System32:45 Hybrid Education36:52 Vouchers and Microschools39:45 Creativity Over Regurgitation42:38 The Role of Data 44:07 A Vision for Hybrid Learning50:22 The Importance of Student Ownership in LearningConnect with Matt on LinkedInListen to Matt's Joining the Dots podcastThanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you.Ben & Steve xChampioning those who are making the future of education a reality.Follow us on XFollow us on LinkedInJoin the WhatsApp CommunityWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work?Get in touchGet your tickets for Edufuturists Uprising 2026

In this episode of the podcast, we have a profound conversation with Jaz Ampaw-Farr, an educator and author, about the transformative power of teachers and the importance of human connection in education. Jaz shares her personal journey, highlighting the impact of five key teachers in her life who helped shape her resilience and success. The discussion goes deep into the challenges faced by educators, the need for mental health support, and the importance of building authentic relationships with students. Jaz emphasizes that education should focus on nurturing human skills and preparing students for an uncertain future, advocating for a shift from traditional behaviour policies to relationship-focused approaches in schools.We also dive into her latest book, Because of You, This Is Me. Grab a copyChapters00:00 Introduction01:21 Jaz's Journey and the Role of Teachers04:17 The Power of Five Teachers10:13 Navigating Trauma and Education14:22 Human First, Professional Second18:29 The Challenges of the Education System20:27 Building Relationships in Education24:52 Building Trust in Education28:40 The Importance of Authentic Relationships33:05 Human Skills vs. AI36:45 The Role of Educators in Shaping Lives43:48 Transforming Education Through RelationshipsThanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you.Ben & Steve xChampioning those who are making the future of education a reality.Follow us on XFollow us on LinkedInJoin the WhatsApp CommunityCheck out all about EdufuturistsWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work?Get in touchGet your tickets for Edufuturists Uprising 2026

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by Tasnuva and Ben representing the Youth Shadow Panel to discuss their part in the Shadow Curriculum & Assessment Review. This is the student voice to mirror the UK government's Curriculum & Assessment Review (CAR) led by Professor Becky Francis.Ben & Tasnuva join us as two members of a wider youth panel who represent the voices of 10.5 million children and young people. The panel gathered views from thousands of children and young people through a call for evidence, a national roadshow, school assemblies, and focus groups. Over 200 young people participated in four in-person and two online roadshow workshops, and more than 550 individuals and groups responded to their call.The report sets out 14 key recommendations which reflect the shared view from young people for an education system across four themes: building skills and relevance to life; assessments, mental health and wellbeing; climate, sustainability and citizenship education; and equity and inclusion. The recommendations are published with the hope that the CAR will adopt them in full as part of its final report, due for publication in autumn 2025, and that they will be implemented by the Department for Education thereafter.Chapters00:00 Introductions00:57 Meet the Youth Shadow Panel05:02 The Role of Youth in Education Reform10:13 Key Recommendations from the Youth Shadow Panel14:47 The Importance of Life Skills and Enrichment20:00 Rethinking Assessment and Mental Health25:02 The Future of Education and AI29:47 The Role of Citizenship in Education34:11 Outdoor Learning and Its Importance37:12 Political Literacy and Youth Engagement38:19 Creating Equitable and Inclusive Education45:17 The Future of Education ReformRead the full reportShow your support by adding your endorsement for the reportThanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you.Ben & Steve xChampioning those who are making the future of education a reality.Follow us on XFollow us on LinkedInJoin the WhatsApp CommunityCheck out all about EdufuturistsWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work?Get in touchGet your tickets for Edufuturists Uprising 2026

In this episode of the Edufuturists podcast, we talk to Kathryn McColl and Brogan Pierce from Hark about their Listen Up Report, which uncovers why confidence drops during key school transitions, who’s most affected, and what educators and employers can do to close the gap. Nearly 1 in 3 young people in the UK lack confidence - a hidden barrier to learning, career opportunities, and life chances. This isn’t just about shyness. It’s about a systemic issue that shapes learning, limits life chances, and affects the future workforce. Together, we explore The “Unheard Third” - who they are, and why they’re being overlooked, as well as why confidence often plummets during school transitions. We dive into how low confidence keeps young people from speaking up, joining in, or taking opportunities and what schools, employers, and communities can do to create emotionally safe, empowering spaces. Kathryn and Brogan share stories from the report, unpack the role of gender, background, and region in shaping confidence, and show how practical interventions, from classroom culture to early employer engagement, can change the game. This is a values-driven, action-focused conversation for educators, school leaders, businesses, and anyone committed to building a more inclusive future for young people. Chapters00:00 Introduction01:41 Understanding Hark and the Listen Up Report02:47 The Importance of Confidence in Young People10:15 The Impact of Lack of Confidence on Behaviour19:44 Disparities in Confidence Among Different Groups25:58 Exploring the Causes of the Confidence Crisis44:09 Practical Solutions for Building Confidence50:55 Quickfire Questions and Closing ThoughtsYou can download the Listen Up report hereAbout Hark Hark works with schools, businesses, and brands to build the confidence, skills, and inclusion young people need to thrive - through research, national programmes, and real-world experiences. Find out moreThanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you.Ben & Steve xChampioning those who are making the future of education a reality.Follow us on XFollow us on LinkedInCheck out all about EdufuturistsWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work?Get in touch

In this episode, hosts Steve Hope and Ben Whitaker look into the evolving landscape of education. We discuss the challenges and opportunities in creating inclusive and diverse learning environments, the role of AI in education, and the importance of community engagement. The conversation also touches on the need for a curriculum that adapts to the needs of all students and the significance of teacher and tutor roles in the age of technology.Chapters00:00 Celebrating Community and Events04:06 Reflecting on Past Guests and Themes05:21 Rethinking Education and Curriculum09:27 The Role of AI in Tutoring12:07 Equity and Inclusion in Education15:16 Making Learning Real and Engaging19:44 Presence Over Attendance in Education20:08 Rethinking Attendance in Education23:31 Engagement vs. Attendance: A Deeper Look26:24 Social Class and Educational Equity28:11 Community and Its Role in Education32:54 AI Literacy: Bridging the Gap35:34 Looking Ahead: Future Trends in EducationThanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you.Ben & Steve xChampioning those who are making the future of education a reality.Follow us on XFollow us on LinkedInJoin the WhatsApp CommunityCheck out all about EdufuturistsWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work?Get in touchGet your tickets for Edufuturists Uprising 2026

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by Jeremy Samways, who discusses his journey from marketing to education, focusing on the importance of AI literacy for students. Jeremy is the founder and a trustee of Your Tomorrow, an innovative charity dedicated to bridging the gap between education and the rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence. With a strong communications and consultancy background and over a decade of experience working closely with the FE sector, Jeremy offers unique insights into AI’s transformative potential for students and educators.Jeremy leads Your Tomorrow in delivering impactful and innovative workshops and training programmes designed to demystify AI, equipping young people and educators with the critical skills for a future profoundly shaped by AI. Jeremy shares insights on the workshops he conducts, the development of the AI Literacy Launchpad, and the need for students to be prepared for a rapidly changing job market influenced by AI. The conversation emphasises the significance of student engagement, the ethical implications of AI, and the necessity for educators to adapt to new technologies while fostering critical human skills.Chapters00:00 Introduction03:22 The Influence of AI on Education06:11 Workshops and AI Literacy for Students09:10 The Role of Educators in AI Literacy12:22 The Need for AI Literacy Frameworks15:11 The Future of Work and AI's Impact18:26 AI Literacy as a Long-Term Strategy27:10 The Future of AI and Youth Engagement36:41 AI Literacy Launchpad: A New Educational Framework50:22 Quickfire QuestionsFind out more about Your Tomorrow Get in touch with Jeremy and the teamAnd for a quick LaunchPad video intro Thanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you.Ben & Steve xChampioning those who are making the future of education a reality.Follow us on XFollow us on LinkedInCheck out all about EdufuturistsWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work?Get in touch

In this episode of the podcast, we are delighted to welcome back Matt Bromley, an educational author and advisor, to discuss his latest book, 'Why School Doesn't Work for Every Child.' Matt first joined us in February 2024 with Andy Griffith, the co-author of another, similar book, The Working Classroom, and a friend of Ben's from his formative teaching years.This conversation explores themes of inclusion, belonging, and equity in education, emphasising the importance of tailored approaches to meet diverse student needs. Matt shares insights from his experiences and the stories of characters Thomas and Tommy to illustrate the impact of privilege on educational outcomes. The discussion also introduces the ABC model for fostering a culture of inclusion and the significance of community engagement in education. Chapters00:00 Introductions01:31 Revisiting Matt Bromley: Author and Educator 03:27 The Journey of Writing and Education 05:09 Exploring Inclusion and Belonging in Education 07:08 Defining Inclusion and Belonging 11:06 The Importance of Tailored Education 13:25 Understanding Belonging in Schools 17:20 The EDI Framework: Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion 22:51 The Stories of Thomas and Tommy 30:21 The ABC Model for Inclusion 36:24 Attendance: The Foundation of Engagement 39:15 Behaviours for Learning: Beyond Compliance 42:19 Building Community in Education 45:59 Preview of Upcoming Book: Making the Classroom Work for Every Child Get 20% off your copy of Matt's new book using code 25ESE1 at Routledge EducationMatt mentioned a self-evaluation tool which you can access, alongside much of his work around equity hereThanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you.Ben & Steve xChampioning those who are making the future of education a reality.Follow us on XFollow us on LinkedInCheck out all about EdufuturistsWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work?Get in touch

In this episode of the podcast, we are super pleased to be able have another thought-provoking conversation, this time with Ian Timbrell, another Crown House Publishing author. Ian has written a brilliant book, More Than Flags and Rainbows, so we sit down to chat about the future of education, focusing on the importance of true inclusion, cultural change, and creating safe spaces for all students. Ian shares his journey from teaching to founding a not-for-profit organisation aimed at training schools to foster an inclusive environment. The discussion highlights the need for long-term strategies over quick fixes, the role of language in promoting understanding, and the challenges educators face in navigating fears and misconceptions surrounding LGBTQ+ issues. Ian emphasises the importance of acknowledging mistakes and being open to learning as essential components of fostering a supportive educational community.Chapters00:00 Introduction02:50 Ian Timbrell's Journey in Education05:40 The Importance of True Inclusion08:11 Cultural Change Over Tick-Box Solutions10:53 Creating Safe Spaces in Schools14:04 Navigating Fear and Misunderstanding16:34 The Role of Language in Inclusion19:14 Long-Term Change vs. Quick Fixes22:19 Authenticity and Self-Expression24:51 The Evolution of Language and Understanding27:36 Final Thoughts and Quickfire QuestionsThanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you.Ben & Steve xGrab a copy of Ian's new book hereWe mentioned the new RSE changes in the UK curriculum. More information can be found hereChampioning those who are making the future of education a reality.Follow us on XFollow us on LinkedInCheck out all about EdufuturistsWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work?Get in touch

In this episode of the Edufuturists podcast, we are joined by Ben's fellow Accringtonian, Professor Andy Hargreaves to discuss the complexities of education, focusing on student engagement, the impact of teachers, and the importance of identity and belonging in the learning process. Andy shares his personal journey from Accrington to Canada, highlighting the role of influential teachers in shaping his career. The conversation delves into the challenges of absenteeism, the dimensions of student engagement, and the five enemies that hinder it. We explore the need for choice in education and the importance of making learning relevant and engaging for all students. Although, we don't get chance to talk much about Andy's most recent book, we do delve into lots of his other works, especially around culture and identity. It also means we need to get Andy back very soon for a follow up!Chapters00:00 Introduction 01:09 Andy's Journey Through Education 02:32 The Impact of Social Mobility on Education 08:23 Understanding Absenteeism in Education 12:37 The Importance of Student Engagement 17:49 The Five Enemies of Student Engagement 20:55 Transforming Education: From Compliance to Engagement 21:48 The Importance of Identity and Belonging 27:57 Complexities of Identity in Education 30:46 Creating Inclusive Educational Environments 36:10 Innovative Approaches to Learning 40:36 The Role of Schools in Student Experience 48:30 Quick Fire Reflections on EducationPre-order a copy of Andy's latest book from Crown House Publishing hereCheck out Andy's website hereThanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you.Ben & Steve xChampioning those who are making the future of education a reality.Follow us on XFollow us on LinkedInCheck out all about EdufuturistsWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work?Get in touch

In this episode of the podcast, we welcome another Crown House Publishing author, Leonie Briggs, the director of Amaze Lab, to discuss the future of education, particularly in the realms of STEM and STEAM. Leonie shares her journey from veterinary practice to education, her passion for creating engaging learning experiences, and her new book, 'Make Your Own Rainbow.' The conversation explores the importance of creativity, play, and real-world applications in learning, as well as the community engagement efforts of Amaze Lab.Chapters00:00 Introductions01:36 Meet Leonie Briggs and Amaze Lab04:24 The Journey to Amaze Lab09:49 Exploring the Book: Make Your Own Rainbow11:58 Real-Life Applications of STEM and STEAM17:05 The Importance of Play in Learning20:32 Linking Subjects: The Case for STEAM27:05 Community Engagement and Workshops28:41 Quickfire Questions Ben & Steve xFind out more about Amaze LabGrab a copy of Leonie's book, Make Your Own RainbowThanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you.Ben & Steve xChampioning those who are making the future of education a reality.We are pleased to be joining the team at Cottesmore School for their FREE AI& Conference on 2nd September 2025. We would love you to join us and the stellar lineup of speakers, including Sir Anthony Seldon, Paddy McGrath, Chris Goodall and Dan Fitzpatrick. Contact office@cottesmoreschool.com or 01293520648 to book your ticketsFollow us on XFollow us on LinkedInCheck out all about EdufuturistsWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work?Get in touch

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by Tom Hooper, founder of Third Space Learning, to discuss the evolution of tutoring from human-led to AI-driven models. Tom shares insights on the effectiveness of one-to-one tutoring, the importance of equitable access to education, and the role of teachers in integrating AI into learning environments. The conversation highlights the potential of AI to transform educational outcomes, particularly for at-risk learners, while emphasising the need for enjoyment and engagement in the learning process. We also dig into whether tutoring in any form perpetuates an exam-focused system.Chapters00:00 Introductions00:59 Tom Hooper's Journey in Education Technology02:14 The Shift from Human to AI Tutoring04:25 The Importance of Evidence in Tutoring08:53 Equity in Access to Tutoring13:28 AI Tutoring's Role in Addressing Learning Gaps17:45 The Future of AI in Education25:34 The Evolution of AI Tutoring30:31 AI vs Human Interaction in Education33:27 Transforming Tutoring Dynamics36:17 Balancing Engagement and Learning40:06 Quickfire QuestionsFind out more about Third SpaceThanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you.Ben & Steve xChampioning those who are making the future of education a reality.We are pleased to be joining the team at Cottesmore School for their FREE AI& Conference on 2nd September 2025. We would love you to join us and the stellar lineup of speakers, including Sir Anthony Seldon, Paddy McGrath, Chris Goodall and Dan Fitzpatrick. Contact ⁠office@cottesmoreschool.com⁠ or 01293520648 to book your ticketsFollow us on XFollow us on LinkedInCheck out all about EdufuturistsWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work?Get in touch

In this episode of the podcast, we welcome John Tomsett, an experienced educator and author. John shares his journey from head teacher to educational consultant, emphasising the importance of understanding teaching through a global lens. The conversation delves into the significance of checking for understanding in the classroom, the challenges of a content-heavy curriculum, and the role of expectations in education. John discusses his latest books, which highlight the traits of truly great teachers and the importance of relationships in fostering student engagement and well-being. The episode concludes with a quickfire round of insightful questions, reflecting on the holistic view of education and the joy of teaching.Chapters00:00 Celebrating Milestones and Future Plans02:25 John Tomsett: A Journey Through Education05:54 Gaining Perspective: From Headteacher to Education Consultant11:45 The Importance of Checking for Understanding17:33 Curriculum Content - Need to Know vs. Neat to Know20:23 Exploring Great Teaching34:27 The Joy of Learning vs. Grades35:15 Rethinking Curriculum and Assessment36:22 Engagement Over Rhetoric in Teaching39:22 The Importance of Philosophy in Education40:49 Success and Self-Concept in Education46:09 Mental Health and Effective Teaching51:11 Creating a Culture of Love in EducationThanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you.Ben & Steve xChampioning those who are making the future of education a reality.Grab copies of John's booksSubscribe to John's blogFollow us on XFollow us on LinkedInCheck out all about EdufuturistsWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work?Get in touch

In this milestone 300th episode of the podcast, we reflect on the journey, the evolution of education, and the importance of community. We discuss the key trends in education that we shared at Uprising25, the need for a shift in assessment methods, and the concept of agency with guardrails to foster independent thinking in students. The conversation unapologetically focuses on the necessity of redefining the purpose of education to prepare learners for a complex world, advocating for a system that values diversity and creativity over compliance.Chapters00:00 Celebrating 300 Episodes10:31 Considered Disruption in Education19:05 Rethinking Assessment Models26:17 The Burden of Overloaded Curriculum28:55 Agency with Guardrails in Education32:40 Fostering Independent Thinkers36:11 Redefining the Purpose of Education39:19 The Need for Diversity in Learning44:15 Preparing for the Real World50:12 The Future of Education and Lifelong LearningCheck out the latest Trends Volume 3 bookletThanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you.Ben & Steve xChampioning those who are making the future of education a reality.Join the Edufuturists Wolpack CommunityFollow us on XFollow us on LinkedInCheck out all about Edufuturists Want to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work?Get in touch

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by the wonderful Emma Darcy, a prominent figure in EdTech, discussing her journey, the importance of community and networking, and the transformative role of AI in education. Emma shares insights on the Apps for Good initiative, emphasising the need for schools to adapt to the changing landscape of technology and student engagement. The conversation highlights the significance of professional generosity, the value of community support, and the necessity of involving young people in discussions about AI and its implications for their learning experiences.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:08 Emma Darcy's Journey in EdTech03:23 Interchangeable Insights: School and Trust Dynamics06:18 The Value of Networking in Education09:24 Professional Generosity and Community Support21:07 Apps for Good: Empowering Students through Technology29:45 AI as a Disruptor in Education39:35 Sustaining Passion in EdTech42:41 Celebrating Community and Achievements46:04 Quickfire Questions: Insights and ReflectionsCheck out Apps for Good Check out the DfE AI Toolkits that Emma helped to designConnect with EmmaThanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you.Ben & Steve xChampioning those who are making the future of education a reality.Follow us on XFollow us on LinkedInCheck out all about EdufuturistsWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work? Get in touch

In this episode of the podcast, we welcome Christian Turton, the EdTech Lead at Chiltern Learning Trust. We discuss the evolving role of technology in education, particularly the integration of AI. Christian shares insights on the Department for Education's recent guidance on Generative AI in schools, emphasising the importance of safe and effective use. The conversation highlights the positive reception among educators of the AI toolkits he has developed and the need for a shift in mindset towards technology in learning. We also address concerns about AI's impact on creativity and the necessity of preparing students for a tech-driven future.Chapters00:00 Introduction05:22 The Role of Innovation in Education10:02 Christian's Journey in EdTech15:27 Generative AI in Education: DfE Guidance21:04 Navigating AI's Role in the Classroom27:06 Navigating AI in Education29:55 Positive Reception and Community Engagement33:19 Addressing Concerns and Misconceptions35:37 Safeguarding Students in the Age of AI37:55 Comparative Insights from Global AI Policies39:43 Measuring Impact and Future Directions42:46 Creativity and AI in the Arts45:41 Quickfire Questions and Final ThoughtsFind out all about the DfE's new AI ToolkitsThanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you.Ben & Steve xChampioning those who are making the future of education a reality.Follow us on XFollow us on LinkedInCheck out all about EdufuturistsWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work?Get in touch

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by Matt Bowman, founder of OpenEd, to discuss the evolution of education and the importance of personalised learning. We explore how traditional education systems are failing to meet the needs of diverse learners and the role of technology, particularly AI, in shaping the future of education. Matt talks about the need for parents to take an active role in their children's education and the importance of creating engaging learning environments that foster joy and curiosity. The conversation also touches on critical thinking, problem-solving, and the potential for community involvement in education.Chapters00:00 Introduction02:06 Matt's Journey in Education05:18 The Evolution of Online Learning06:14 Tailoring Education to Individual Needs07:46 Changing Attitudes Towards Education11:04 Rethinking Traditional Education Pathways11:42 Intentional Education Planning for Parents14:35 The Shift in Parental Perspectives16:02 Fostering a Love for Learning19:18 Creating Engaging Learning Environments23:00 The Flaws of Standardised Testing25:39 Flexibility in Education for Gifted Students28:17 Empowering Student Agency in Education31:25 The Role of Guardrails in Learning33:12 Tailoring Education to Individual Needs36:33 Transforming Traditional Education Systems40:32 Rethinking Intelligence and Learning44:47 Fostering Critical Thinking Through Real-World Problems49:20 Innovative Funding Solutions for EducationWe mentioned a blog post about Marilyn vos Savant - that's hereGrab a copy of Matt's bookCheck out Open Ed AcademyThanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you.Ben & Steve xChampioning those who are making the future of education a reality.Follow us on XFollow us on LinkedInCheck out all about EdufuturistsWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work?Get in touch

In this episode of the Edufuturists podcast, we chat with the wonderful Meagan Alfano all the way from Edmonton, Canada, who shares her insights on the importance of STEM education, the role of fun and creativity in learning, and innovative teaching practices such as design thinking and the use of micro:bit technology. Meagan discusses her journey in education, the challenges and shifts in the Canadian education system, and the need for educators to inspire and engage students. The conversation emphasises the significance of understanding diverse learning styles and the necessity of creating an engaging classroom environment. It's super high energy and helps us appreciate the need for lighting fires and not burning out too.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background05:24 Megan's Journey in Education10:14 The Importance of Fun in Learning15:15 Design Thinking in Education20:20 Engaging Students through Creativity25:28 The Role of Passion in Teaching26:57 The Passion for Education31:44 The Importance of Fun in Learning43:43 Innovative Teaching with Micro:bits48:30 Quick Fire Reflections on EducationCheck out Meagan's workAlso subscribe to her podcast with another Edufuturist friend, Abid PatelThanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you.Ben & Steve xChampioning those who are making the future of education a reality.Follow us on XFollow us on LinkedInCheck out all about EdufuturistsWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work?Get in touch