Edufuturists

This episode of the podcast is a big review of some of our most recent episodes and the lessons we have learned from them. The conversation explores the readiness and agility of young people in the face of change, juxtaposed (what a great word, btw!) with scepticism about the future developments and their potential impact. We always speak with hope (just Steve Hope) while acknowledging the challen...

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by Hilary Leevers and Maddie Dinwoodie from Engineering UK to discuss the importance of engineering education and the upcoming Tomorrow's Engineers Week. We explore the need for diversity in the engineering workforce, the significance of linking engineering to young people's passions, and the role of education in preparing students for future c...

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 shi...

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,...

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 educat...

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...

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 n...

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....

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 teac...

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 b...

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 exp...

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....

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 sha...

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 explo...

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...

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 expect...

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 red...

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 hi...

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 positiv...

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 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 Can...

In this episode of the podcast, we welcome back Louise Jones, the Chief Community Officer at ThingLink. We discuss her journey in education technology, the significance of multi-modal learning, and the shift from measuring attendance to engagement in educational settings. Louise talks passionately about the importance of accessibility and compassion in communication, sharing a case study of Mitsub...

In this episode of the podcast, we have the awesome privilege of being joined by none other than Richard Culatta, CEO of ISTE and former White House Education Adviser. We discuss the future of education and the role of technology in enhancing learning experiences. The conversation explores the importance of thoughtful tech integration (or not integration as you will hear Richard say!), the need fo...

In this episode of the podcast, we review six recent episodes, discussing key themes in education, including the future of EdTech, the importance of community, the role of AI, and the need for change in educational leadership. We reflect on super insightful conversations with various guests, emphasising the need for agency, choice, and responsible use of technology in education. The episode also f...

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by Professor Mike Sharples, an expert in educational technology, to discuss the evolving landscape of education, particularly in relation to AI and online learning. Mike is Emeritus Professor of Educational Technology at The Open University. We explore the history and impact of the Open University, the importance of pedagogy in integrating technology,...