
Education On Fire - Sharing creative and inspiring learning in our schools
Do you feel the education system is sucking the life out of you and the pupils you serve? I think many of us wish we could click our fingers and make it fit for purpose. A place of growth with shared learning that empowers pupils to be their best selves, so they can create a world they want to inhabit now and in the future.
While a magic wand or a visionary politician might sound like the answer I believe change is already happening. Educators are changing futures one conversation at a time. New technology and the environments where we learn are beginning to look different both in and out of the classroom. I hope you are seeing this first hand and are excited about what you can share with your pupils. We are having conversations, sharing organisations and communities that are supporting education in a way that you may have not experienced.
Educational change will come from us all working in way that supports the best interests of each of our pupils, personalised learning. Governments and policy makers will follow when they see fully how it can be different. So let us teach, coach, mentor and create an environment that fuels every child with feedback, inspiration, resilience and empowerment. The Education on Fire community is shining the torch, so no matter where you are in the world or how you are supporting children this podcast is here for you.
‘Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.’
Latest episodes

Jun 30, 2025 • 38min
Purposeful Educator Connections: Five Principles to Strengthen Relationships with Students
Marcela Andrés serves as President and CEO of designEDengagement, PBC, a Latina-owned education consulting firm based in Texas on a mission to reimagine how educators, families, and community members partner to support the hopes and dreams of students. Previously, Marcela was a program director for a non-profit whose mission was to advocate for public education. She was also a third- and fourth-grade teacher at a bilingual elementary school.She is the author of Purposeful Educator Connections: Five Principles to Strengthen Relationships with Students. In the book, Marcela offers critical principles to deepen relationships with students, understand the importance of context beyond compliance, foster meaningful interactions, design high-quality learning environments, and partner with key stakeholders. Purposeful Educator Connections provides high-leverage practices, case studies, and reflection questions to help educators apply these principles to their practice, ultimately improving classroom culture and student outcomes.Takeaways: The discussion posits that zip codes should not determine an individual's destiny, emphasizing the importance of equity in educational opportunities. We assert that education is a non-linear journey, where each experience contributes uniquely to personal growth and career development. The podcast highlights the significance of educators in recognizing potential in students, often before they themselves are aware of it. We explore the crucial role of family and community engagement in the educational process, emphasizing that learning occurs beyond traditional classroom settings. The conversation underscores the necessity of self-care for educators, as their wellbeing directly influences their capacity to support students effectively. Lastly, we reflect on the transformative power of relationships in education, asserting that true learning flourishes in environments where individuals feel valued and seen. Websitehttps://www.designedengagement.com/Social Media InformationIG: https://www.instagram.com/molcajete_talk/LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcelaandres/Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Discover more about Education on Fire🔥 https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – How I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecamm🔥 Captivate.FM – My podcast hosthttps://educationonfire.com/captivate🔥 Descript – My Editing Toolhttps://educationonfire.com/descriptSome of the above are affiliate links, I may receive a small commission if you purchase via these but there is no cost increase to you. These links help support the channel so any clicks are greatly appreciated.

Jun 23, 2025 • 42min
Empowering educators to prioritise their well-being
Dr. Jewel Williams, a Doctor of Health Science, Nationally Registered EMT, and Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES®), is an adjunct faculty member at the University of Bridgeport. With over 20 years as an educator and former principal, she is passionate about empowering educators to prioritise their well-being. Dr. Williams integrates neuroscience with the eight dimensions of wellness—physical, emotional, social, intellectual, spiritual, occupational, environmental, and financial—to help educators create sustainable wellness practices. Through workshops and her private wellness community, she provides strategies that connect brain health to holistic well-being, enabling educators to thrive both personally and professionally.Takeaways: As educators, it is imperative to acknowledge and adapt to the cultural dynamics of the environment in which we teach. The manner in which we communicate significantly influences our overall well-being and mental health. Implementing a brief daily practice of mindfulness and breathing can substantially enhance one's emotional resilience and clarity. Teachers must recognise their own wellness needs in order to effectively support their students' learning experiences. Pursuing one's authentic aspirations, irrespective of external validation, is essential for personal fulfilment and professional growth. The holistic approach to wellness encompasses emotional, physical, and mental health, which are interdependent in fostering a thriving educational environment. Connect with Dr. Williams at:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jewelwhitewmsdhsc/https://www.youtube.com/@jewelwhitewilliamsShow Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Discover more about Education on Fire🔥 https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – How I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecamm🔥 Captivate.FM – My podcast hosthttps://educationonfire.com/captivate🔥 Descript – My Editing Toolhttps://educationonfire.com/descriptSome of the above are affiliate links, I may receive a small commission if you purchase via these but there is no cost increase to you. These links help support the channel so any clicks are greatly appreciated.

Jun 16, 2025 • 39min
Be The Ladder Foundation : Empowering Others to Fulfil Their Potential
Beyond its essential educational initiatives, The Be The Ladder Foundation also recognises those who make a difference through the Be The Ladder Awards. These prestigious awards shine a spotlight on individuals and organisations that embody the ethos of ‘being a ladder’ – helping others overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.Every year, the awards celebrate 30 exceptional individuals or groups, known as The Ladder List, across ten categories. From these nominees, one deserving recipient in each category is honoured with the coveted Golden Ladder Award during a special awards ceremony. This recognition is not just about celebration; it’s about inspiring a movement of kindness and mentorship, encouraging others to step up and be the ladder for someone else.The Be The Ladder Foundation provides vital support to young people who may not meet their potential due to their socio-economic status and require essential resources to reach their full potential. The foundation bridges the gap by offering school uniforms, educational equipment, tuition support, and funding for enriching experiences that build confidence and self-esteem.Dr. Trevor D. Sterling (Hon.causa), Senior Partner at Moore Barlow, is the Founder of the Be The Ladder Foundation.His unwavering commitment to social mobility and education drives our firm’s dedication to this cause. Through his leadership and vision, we are not only supporters but active participants in changing lives for the better.Takeaways: The mantra of 'don't just aspire to climb the ladder, Be The Ladder' serves as a profound reminder that we should actively support others in their journeys to success. The Be the Ladder foundation is dedicated to providing opportunities for individuals from under-resourced backgrounds to fulfil their potential, thereby enhancing social mobility. Believing in oneself is crucial; a sense of purpose and motivation can significantly influence educational and societal outcomes for individuals. Trevor Sterling's journey exemplifies that extraordinary achievements can stem from ordinary backgrounds, demonstrating the power of self-belief and resilience in overcoming socioeconomic barriers. The foundation aims to bridge the attainment gap by offering support such as private tuition and workshops, ensuring that all individuals have access to necessary resources for success. Celebrating those who have 'been the ladder' helps to inspire future generations, creating a ripple effect of motivation and empowerment throughout society. Websitehttps://www.betheladderawards.comhttps://www.betheladderawards.com/our-missionShow Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Discover more about Education on Fire🔥 https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – How I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecamm🔥 Captivate.FM – My podcast hosthttps://educationonfire.com/captivate🔥 Descript – My Editing Toolhttps://educationonfire.com/descriptSome of the above are affiliate links, I may receive a small commission if you purchase via these but there is no cost increase to you. These links help support the channel so any clicks are greatly appreciated.

Jun 9, 2025 • 55min
Planet Bonehead: Revolutionary Approaches to Climate Education
Bobby Donohue is the founder of Planet Bonehead, an innovative educational platform helping schools teach kids about climate change and prepare them for environmental STEAM careers. Planet Bonehead provides teachers with the knowledge, resources, and support they need to effectively educate young learners about environmental issues. His work combines creativity, storytelling, and real-world solutions to inspire kids to think critically and take action. Planet Bonehead is used in classrooms across 86 countries, empowering the next generation to build a sustainable future.Takeaways: The podcast emphasizes the importance of teaching children about climate change in an engaging manner that avoids overwhelming negativity. Bobby Donohue highlights that green technology offers viable solutions to climate change, yet remains largely unknown to the public. Through Planet Bonehead, children are encouraged to explore various career paths within green technology that they may not have previously considered. The podcast advocates for an educational approach that empowers children to take immediate action towards environmental stewardship and sustainability. The discussion underscores the necessity for collaboration between educators and green tech companies to effectively implement educational resources. Bobby Donohue expresses a commitment to making educational materials accessible for all students, regardless of their school's budget constraints. Websitehttps://planetbonehead.com/Social Media Informationhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbydonohue/https://bsky.app/profile/planetbonehead.comShow Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Discover more about Education on Fire🔥 https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – How I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecamm🔥 Captivate.FM – My podcast hosthttps://educationonfire.com/captivate🔥 Descript – My Editing Toolhttps://educationonfire.com/descriptSome of the above are affiliate links, I may receive a small commission if you purchase via these but there is no cost increase to you. These links help support the channel so any clicks are greatly appreciated.

Jun 2, 2025 • 46min
From Passion to Profession: Martyn Cast and the Jenca Music School
Martyn Cast is a distinguished musician and educator from Jenca Music School in Jersey. Martyn discusses the transformative power of music, particularly in educational contexts, where it serves as a medium for individuals—especially children—to express themselves and navigate their emotions. He recounts his personal journey, beginning with a childhood steeped in musical influence, which culminated in the founding of the Jenca Music School in Jersey. Through this institution, he aims to cultivate a nurturing environment where students can explore their musical passions, develop resilience, and ultimately achieve personal growth through music. Martyn Cast, owner/ guitar tutor at Jenca Music School, Jersey C.I.Author of children's guitar songbook Mr Martie's Marvellous MelodiesTakeaways: Music serves as an empowering force in people's lives, enabling them to express their creativity and emotions. The journey of learning an instrument is often more about personal enjoyment than achieving formal grades or accolades. Inspiration is crucial in teaching, as it helps to foster a genuine love for music among students. Resilience is vital in the learning process; students must persist through challenges to achieve their musical goals. The connection between teacher and student can profoundly influence a child's engagement and growth in music. Music education provides not only academic benefits but also enhances social skills and personal development in learners. Websitehttps://www.jenca.co.uk/Social Media InformationFacebook: MarvellousMrMartieInstagram: MarvellousMrMartieShow Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Discover more about Education on Fire🔥 https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – How I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecamm🔥 Captivate.FM – My podcast hosthttps://educationonfire.com/captivate🔥 Descript – My Editing Toolhttps://educationonfire.com/descriptSome of the above are affiliate links, I may receive a small commission if you purchase via these but there is no cost increase to you. These links help support the channel so any clicks are greatly appreciated.

May 26, 2025 • 42min
Effort Over Outcome: Lessons from Mike Robbins on Personal Growth and Education
Today's podcast features Mike Robbins, who delves into the intricate dynamics of teamwork, human connection, and the evolving landscape of education. Mike reflects on his experiences as both an athlete and an educator, emphasizing the paramount importance of fostering genuine relationships within teams. He articulates that when individuals care for one another and cultivate a supportive environment, performance inevitably improves. Furthermore, Mike addresses the pressing need for educational systems to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world applications, asserting that many students often grapple with the relevance of their studies to their personal and professional lives. Mike Robbins is the author of five books, including, Bring Your Whole Self to Work and We're All in This Together. He's a former pro baseball player whose playing career ended due to an injury. For the past 25 years, he's been a sought-after motivational speaker who delivers keynotes and seminars for some of the top companies in the world. Takeaways: The importance of caring for one another on teams is fundamental to improved performance. Recognizing our shared humanity is essential for effective communication and collaboration. Many aspects of education fail to connect with real-world applications, causing disinterest among students. Effort is the only aspect of our actions fully within our control, regardless of the outcomes. The best AI cannot replicate the depth of human emotion and empathy which is vital in education. The educational landscape must adapt to the changing nature of work and technology, emphasizing emotional intelligence. Websitehttps://mike-robbins.com/Social media Informationhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mrobbins/https://www.instagram.com/mikedrobbins/https://www.facebook.com/mikerobbinspagehttps://x.com/mikedrobbinshttps://www.tiktok.com/@mikedrobbinsShow Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Discover more about Education on Fire🔥 https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – How I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecamm🔥 Captivate.FM – My podcast hosthttps://educationonfire.com/captivate🔥 Descript – My Editing Toolhttps://educationonfire.com/descriptSome of the above are affiliate links, I may receive a small commission if you purchase via these but there is no cost increase to you. These links help support the channel so any clicks are greatly appreciated.

May 19, 2025 • 43min
Navigating Speech Therapy: Insights from Better Speech's Experts
Lenora Edwards, Board Certified Speech-Language Pathologist and Chief Knowledge Officer at Better Speech, is a communication expert with over 15 years of experience specializing in pediatric and family-centered speech therapy. Her expertise spans improving speech intelligibility, nurturing language development, and working with neurodiverse individuals, employing evidence-based techniques to help children of all abilities communicate more effectively. At Better Speech, Lenora leads initiatives to make quality speech therapy accessible to all families, empowering them to support their child's communication journey and unlock their full potential.Takeaways: Children require a safe environment to express their thoughts and emotions effectively. Non-verbal communication plays a crucial role in conveying emotions and understanding others. Online speech therapy provides accessible support that can help children develop their communication skills. Parents often feel uncertain about their child's language development and require expert guidance. Observations from teachers and caregivers are valuable in identifying children's communication challenges. The pandemic has impacted children's social interactions and communication development significantly. Websitehttps://www.betterspeech.com/Social media Informationhttps://www.betterspeech.com/bloghttps://www.youtube.com/@Better.Speechhttps://www.facebook.com/yourbetterspeechhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/better-speech/mycompany/https://www.instagram.com/betterspeechhttps://www.tiktok.com/@better.speechShow Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Discover more about Education on Fire🔥 https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – How I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecamm🔥 Captivate.FM – My podcast hosthttps://educationonfire.com/captivate🔥 Descript – My Editing Toolhttps://educationonfire.com/descriptSome of the above are affiliate links, I may receive a small commission if you purchase via these but there is no cost increase to you. These links help support the channel so any clicks are greatly appreciated.

May 12, 2025 • 52min
Navigating the Future of Education Technology with Optoma
Ben Brown Is currently Head of UK and Ireland for Optoma Ltd, having previously been head of market development for Promethean and the education businesses lead for Hewlett-Packard, Samsung and XMA in the UK. He has worked in the education technology sector for over 20 years and has developed a real passion for advancing the use of technology to support teaching and learning. Now the Chair of Trustees at Astrea Academy Trust, he previously sat on the Board of Trustees at the David Ross Education Trust. Recently he has also been a trustee at the Tackley Education Trust. Ben has, throughout his career, looked at the challenges in education and how technology is best placed to resolve them, this has led to him working closely with the DfE as well as Academy Trusts such as ARK, Reach2 and United Learning.Takeaways: Effective implementation of new technologies in education requires concise, easily digestible training materials for teachers. The duration of instructional videos should ideally range from one to two minutes to accommodate teachers' busy schedules. Investments in technology during the COVID-19 pandemic significantly advanced the integration of digital tools in educational settings. The challenge lies not merely in providing technology but ensuring its effective utilization within educational frameworks. A focus on empowering teachers through tailored training is crucial for maximizing the benefits of new technology in classrooms. To foster engagement, technology must solve existing educational challenges rather than simply being used for its own sake. Websitewww.optoma.co.ukMulti-award-winning interactive displays, professional displays, LED displays, projectors and software to suit every education environment.Social media Informationhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brown-a017b621/Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Discover more about Education on Fire🔥 https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – How I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecamm🔥 Captivate.FM – My podcast hosthttps://educationonfire.com/captivate🔥 Descript – My Editing Toolhttps://educationonfire.com/descript

May 5, 2025 • 1h 4min
Why primary schools should have a new inspection model
The Oxford School of Thought (OST) is the primary education think tank – the first of its kindin the UK. They regard learning as a continuum, and we recognise the powerful and enduringinfluence of primary education across a lifetime of learning.OST proposes a distinct model of school inspection for primary schools, highlighting theneed for a framework that reflects the unique nature of primary education.The current inspection model, which primarily caters to secondary schools, fails to addressthe developmental and educational needs of primary school children. This has led to a lackof focus on the holistic, child-centered approaches necessary for young learners.The document emphasises that primary education fosters curiosity, relationships, and abroad, engaging curriculum, factors critical to the early stages of lifelong learning.To improve outcomes for students and to support teachers, the proposed inspection modelshould focus on these aspects, providing a more supportive, collaborative, anddevelopmental approach to school evaluation.The paper outlines some key components for a primary-specific inspection framework, suchas the importance of cross-curricular links, teacher-pupil relationships, inclusivity, and theintegration of the school within its community and primary teaching experience forinspectors.By calling for a developmental and collaborative inspection model the paper aims to shiftaway from punitive measures and towards a system that encourages continuousimprovement, addresses the well-being of both students and staff, and contributes to thebroader goal of fostering lifelong learning.This new approach is seen as essential for enhancing the education system, teacherretention, and children's mental health, and is framed as a necessary step in responding torecent government reviews on curriculum, assessment, and inclusion.Full details at https://www.oxfordschoolofthought.org/ost-report-primary-inspectionDiscover more about Education on Fire🔥 https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Explore the podcast https://www.educationonfire.com/listen🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tip https://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial - See how I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecammSome of the above are affiliate links, I may receive a small commission if you purchase via these but there is no cost increase to you. These links help support the channel so any clicks are greatly appreciated.Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE) https://nape.org.uk/

Apr 28, 2025 • 52min
Embracing Indigenous Learning: A Holistic Approach to Education
With over 25 years of experience as a Special Education Teacher, Classroom Teacher, and Principal, Leroy Slanzi has dedicated is life to cultivating relationships built on kindness, empathy, and trust. He believes in the power of leadership to make the world a better place. He has consistently focused on nurturing a positive impact in the lives of students, families, and educators. Currently, he is working for the Lower Nicola Indian Band, feeling proud and fortunate to be in the final stages of his career working alongside Indigenous people.His journey reflects a steadfast commitment to fostering inclusivity and understanding in education. His work has been guided by the principles of emotional intelligence, servant & relational leadership, and a growth mindset, which he integrates into every aspect of his life. As he continues to serve and uplift those around me, he does his best to remain humble about the path that has brought him to this point, where he is dedicated to making meaningful connections and advocating for a brighter future everyone in education.Takeaways: The significance of free play in education is paramount, as it fosters emotional attachment and enhances the learning experience for children. Schools that lack strict governmental constraints often witness superior academic performance among students, indicating the necessity for educational reform. The contemporary educational environment necessitates a shift towards integrating technology, rather than banning it, to align with the realities of modern childhood. Emotional intelligence and mindfulness are crucial components of education, as they enable children to cope with stress and persevere through challenges. The decline in free play and structured play has resulted in children entering school with diminished social skills and cognitive abilities, necessitating a reevaluation of the current educational practices. Educators must embrace vulnerability and self-reflection to improve their leadership and foster a supportive learning environment for both teachers and students. Websitewww.emotionalschools.com/Social media Informationhttp://linkedin.com/in/leroy-slanzi-3632b2233Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Discover more about Education on Fire🔥 https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – How I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecamm🔥 Captivate.FM – My podcast hosthttps://educationonfire.com/captivate🔥 Descript – My Editing Toolhttps://educationonfire.com/descript