
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

Apr 21, 2025 • 53min
Understanding the psychological barriers that hinder student participation and engagement
Rhonda Britten -- Emmy Award-winner, 4x Bestselling author, Repeat Oprah guest, Tedx Speaker, Huffington Post Contributor, and Master Coach – has devoted her life to one thing: teaching people how to master fear. She has created a method for anyone to overcome the insidious fear of “not being good enough” using the “Wheel Technology” she developed to save her own life.What she teaches is what she has lived.The episode presents an in-depth exploration of the multifaceted relationship between fear, teaching, and learning. Rhonda Britten introduces her innovative methodologies, including the 'Wheel of Fear' and the 'Wheel of Freedom', which serve as frameworks for understanding the psychological barriers that hinder student participation and engagement. She posits that fear is not merely a personal flaw but a universal experience that shapes behavior and learning in profound ways. Rhonda reflections on her own educational journey reveal the detrimental effects of fear on student participation, highlighting the need for educators to adopt a more empathetic approach. Significant transformation in education requires educators to first address their own fears and emotional needs. By prioritizing self-care, teachers can cultivate an environment conducive to authentic learning and emotional safety, allowing students to express themselves freely. This conversation is a call to action for educators to engage in self-reflection and to foster a fearless culture in their classrooms, ultimately leading to a more enriching educational experience for all.Takeaways: The Wheel of Fear and Wheel of Freedom offer frameworks to understand personal fear dynamics. Identifying one's core fear can significantly shift perspectives and enhance personal growth. Authenticity in education requires teachers to understand their own needs and emotions. Students often conceal their fears, which can hinder their learning and engagement in the classroom. Teachers must prioritize self-care to effectively support their students' emotional and educational needs. Creating a supportive classroom environment necessitates a focus on students' individual experiences and needs. Websitehttps://fearlessliving.orghttps://fearlessliving.org/risk/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

Apr 14, 2025 • 30min
The Optimal Path to Modern Math Education: Insights from Dr. Del
Craig Hane, also known as Dr. Del, passionately advocates for a revolutionary approach to mathematics education, emphasizing the necessity of practical application over traditional teaching methods. His initiative, Triad Math, seeks to transform the outdated paradigms of math education in the United States by integrating contemporary tools and techniques that align with the demands of the 21st century. His mission is to empower students with the tools necessary to navigate modern challenges, thereby addressing the pervasive inadequacies within the current educational framework. Our conversation not only sheds light on the failings of existing systems but also presents a compelling vision for a more effective and engaging mathematical education.Takeaways: Craig Hane, also known as Dr. Del, emphasizes the need for a practical approach to mathematics education that transcends outdated traditional methods and focuses on real-world applications. The Triad Math program aims to revolutionize math education by integrating modern tools and pedagogical strategies that cater to individual learning paces and preferences. A significant portion of students in the United States are failing to grasp essential mathematical concepts due to ineffective teaching methods prevalent in the current educational system. Dr. Del's mission is to empower one million individuals through practical math education, thereby enhancing their prospects in technical fields and addressing the skills gap in the workforce. Websitehttps://craighane.com/https://triadmathinc.com/https://www.wolframalpha.com/tourShow 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

Apr 7, 2025 • 53min
Through a Different Lens - Lessons from a Life in Education with Prof Dr Ger Graus OBE
Professor Dr Ger Graus OBE is a renowned figure in the field of education - once described as “Jean-Jacques Rousseau meets Willy Wonka”. He was the first Global Director of Education at KidZania and the founding CEO of the Children’s University. In 2019, Ger became a Visiting Professor at the National Research University in Moscow, Russia. He is also a Professor of Practice at the University of Cumbria, United Kingdom, and a Member of the PhD Advisory Council at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy. Ger is a frequent keynote speaker at some of the world’s leading education conferences. Driven by his famous mantra that “Children can only aspire to what they know exists”, Ger champions the cause of equity, progress, purpose, creativity, and innovation in children’s learning.Born in the Netherlands, Ger moved to the United Kingdom in 1983 where he began his teaching career, later becoming a Senior Inspector, and Education Director.Ger is a member of Bett’s Global Education Council; DIDAC India’s Advisory Board; and Junior Achievement’s Worldwide Global Council. He chairs the Beaconhouse School System’s Advisory Board, Pakistan; advises the Fondazione Reggio Children, Italy; supports a range of education start-ups globally; and was invited to help shape the future of education in Dubai as a member of the Dubai Future Councils. In 2023, he joined the Global Teacher Prize Judging and the World’s Best School Prize Academies as a judge. In 2024, Ger was invited onto the Board of Trustees of the Sharjah Education Academy by Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qassimi, Ruler of Sharjah.In the 2014 Queen’s Birthday Honours List Ger was made an Honorary Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to children, and in 2018 he received the Global Education Leadership Award at the World Education Congress, India. In 2022, he was granted the award of Iconic Leader Creating A Better World For All by the Women Economic Forum (WEF) and the following year, Ger was made a Companion of the Harry Volker Genootschap in The Netherlands.Ger’s professional autobiography, Through a Different Lens - Lessons from a Life in Education, will be published by Routledge in April 2025.Websitehttps://www.gergraus.com/Social Media Informationhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/prof-dr-ger-graus-obe-335bb6115/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🔥 London School of Public Relations – https://educationonfire.com/lsprA comprehensive 1-day CPD-accredited certificated Podcasting course.Some 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.

Mar 31, 2025 • 48min
The Power of Meditation: Building Resilience in Students
Bob Martin’s Uncommon Journey takes him from a high-powered criminal trial lawyer during Miami’s Cocaine Cowboy era to a healing force. Under the tutelage of Hua Ching Ni, a 72nd-generation Master from the Shaolin Temple, Bob has become a Certified Meditation Teacher, Mentor, and published author. At 74, Bob draws from his diverse experiences as a criminal lawyer, restaurant owner, corporate consultant, and community leader to guide others toward clarity and peace. Currently serving as a Professor of Wellness and Mindfulness Coordinator at Elon University, along with teaching corporate executives to the overwhelmed, Bob blends Taoist teachings, brain science, and psychology to help individuals break free from limiting beliefs. His story of transformation offers powerful insights into resilience, fulfillment, and living a meaningful life.Takeaways: The concept of wellness encompasses physical, mental, financial, and spiritual dimensions, promoting holistic life skills for students. Meditation significantly enhances resilience, teaching individuals to recover from setbacks effectively and maintain focus amid challenges. Bob Martin's diverse career journey illustrates the transformative power of mentorship and personal growth through unexpected avenues. The integration of mindfulness into academic settings fosters a supportive environment, equipping students with essential tools for a meaningful life. The importance of reframing one's mindset from obligation to opportunity can profoundly impact personal motivation and academic performance. Life's transient nature urges us to embrace each day as a unique opportunity for growth and fulfillment, emphasizing the value of mindful living. Websitewww.awiseandhappylife.comSocial Media Informationhttps://www.facebook.com/awiseandhappylifehttps://iamthewaybook.com/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562488613782https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-martin-995b30127/https://www.instagram.com/invites/contact/?igsh=1gpcg2ts1mn3d&utm_content=afkfvkuhttps://www.tiktok.com/@iambobmartin?_t=ZP-8t0Mcd4uHBG&_r=1https://www.youtube.com/@bobmartin2629Show 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🔥 London School of Public Relations – https://educationonfire.com/lsprA comprehensive 1-day CPD-accredited certificated Podcasting course.Some 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.

Mar 24, 2025 • 50min
The Hidden Crisis in Foster Care: Advocating for Educational Equity
Sharon Dunlevy is an educational advocate for children in foster care. It is her mission to bring the educational needs of children in foster care to the attention of those who can change policies and practices that would give more children in foster care the ability to succeed educationally, the foundation for their ability to succeed after leaving care. Her primary work includes training foster parents on the educational laws that affect children in foster care and how to use those laws to ensure these children graduate successfully. But Sharon is not just a trainer, she is also a speaker and influencer. She has recently participated in two speaking competitions with the intent of bringing attention to those needs, winning fan favorite in the second competition.Takeaways: The current foster care system inadequately supports half a million children, impacting their educational outcomes. Foster children often face significant challenges in graduating from high school or obtaining diplomas by age 18. Educational advocacy for foster children is crucial to breaking the cycle of trauma and lack of support. Understanding the laws surrounding education for foster children is imperative for foster parents to effectively advocate for their needs. The trauma experienced by foster children can severely hinder their self-esteem and ability to trust adults. Programs like the Family First Prevention Services Act provide essential resources to support youth transitioning out of foster care. Websitewww.sharondunlevy.comSocial Media Informationwww.linkedin.com/in/sharondunlevyShow 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🔥 London School of Public Relations – https://educationonfire.com/lsprA comprehensive 1-day CPD-accredited certificated Podcasting course.Some 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.

Mar 17, 2025 • 50min
The Transformative Power of Neuroplasticity in Education with Arrowsmith
What is Neuroplasticity?Neuroscientists used to think that our brain was fixed and unchangeable from birth. It was believed that our intellectual capacity was fixed – the brain with which we were born, was the brain we had for life. We now know that the brain is a highly active and malleable organ across a person’s lifespan. This powerful capacity for change is called neuroplasticity. Arrowsmith was born from Barbara Arrowsmith-Young’s own painful struggle with her learning disorder and the journey she went through to not only overcome it, but to begin helping others strengthen their brain and change their educational and professional lives. Debbie Gilmore is the Executive Director of Arrowsmith. She is passionate about education. During her 40+ year career as an educator, she has worked as a teacher, literacy advisor, assistant principal, principal and as Head of Diverse Learning Needs at the Sydney Catholic Schools, Sydney, Australia. Now in Canada, as Executive Director of Arrowsmith, she works with educators around the world to bring about educational change. Her experience has helped her understand the need to ‘unlock’ the potential of all students through the power of neuroplasticity, cognitive enhancement and systemic change.Debbie holds a Masters of Education and various Graduate Certificates in Education in a range of areas of diverse learning.Takeaways: The principles of neuroplasticity are essential for facilitating meaningful change within the brain. Engaging in positive cognitive activities enhances the brain's capacity to adapt and grow. In today's AI-driven world, strong cognitive functions are vital for discerning information accuracy. Neuroplasticity provides a hopeful avenue for individuals with learning difficulties to overcome challenges. Websitewww.arrowsmith.caSocial Media Informationhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/arrowsmith-program/https://www.instagram.com/thearrowsmithprogram/https://www.youtube.com/@ArrowsmithProgram/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🔥 London School of Public Relations – https://educationonfire.com/lsprA comprehensive 1-day CPD-accredited certificated Podcasting course.Some 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.

Mar 10, 2025 • 31min
The Future of Education: Rethinking Traditional Methods
The discourse surrounding the transformative potential of education is vividly illustrated through the explorations presented in the recent series of Education on Fire. Each episode immerses the listener in the innovative methodologies employed by a myriad of educators who ardently advocate for systemic change as well as individual empowerment. The concept of backward design, championed by Dr. James Mannion, is a focal point in this series, wherein educators are encouraged to define desired outcomes prior to identifying effective methodologies to achieve such goals. This paradigm shift not only challenges the conventional notions of educational reform but also underscores the necessity for a holistic understanding of the root causes of disparities within the educational system. Furthermore, the series highlights the significance of self-regulated learning, empowering students to take ownership of their educational journeys. Overall, the episodes serve as a clarion call for educators and stakeholders to engage in thoughtful reflection and action towards creating a more equitable educational landscape.Takeaways: The Education on Fire podcast emphasizes the importance of rethinking traditional educational systems to better serve diverse student needs. Dr. James Mannion advocates for a backward design approach, focusing on defining desired outcomes before implementing educational strategies. Self-regulated learning empowers students to take ownership of their educational journey, enhancing their engagement and motivation. The approach taken by Oxford Business College illustrates how supportive environments can significantly impact non-traditional learners' success. JPA's focus on creating safe spaces for children addresses the need for nurturing environments that foster mental health and well-being. The integration of technology in education serves to enhance learning experiences, making education more interactive and engaging for students. Links referenced in this episode:educationonfire.comNB: This episode has been generated using AI https://notebooklm.google/This is my 2nd AI generated podcast. I wanted to explore how it would create a insightful round up of my recent shows since November 2024. The show notes above are also AI generated using the tool within my hosting company Captivate. https://educationonfire.com/captivateIt is pretty accurate however Shelby Kretz's organisation is called Little Justice Leaders which is misquoted in the podcast. I gave the AI the information from my website for episodes 418 - 434.If you want to easily find details of all the shows covered please visit https://www.educationonfire.com/start-here/

Mar 3, 2025 • 50min
Empowering Students Through Communication Skills
Tim Newman explores how communication is an essential pillar for success and the challenges that students face in developing vital skills, particularly in the context of contemporary educational environments. Tim expresses a pressing concern regarding the shortcomings of the current educational system, particularly its fixation on grades over genuine learning. He underscores the importance of fostering self-esteem and encouraging students to engage actively in their educational journeys, thereby empowering them to advocate for their own learning.With over two decades of experience as a college professor, communication coach, and podcast host, Tim has dedicated his career to helping people find their voice and use it powerfully. Whether you’re speaking to a packed room, hosting a podcast, or pitching your next big idea, my goal is simple: to help you become a communicator who captivates, inspires, and makes an impact.He has also developed The Formula for Public Speaking, a proven, step-by-step course that transforms nervous speakers into confident presenters. This program equips you with the skills to speak with clarity, conviction, and purpose, whether you’re on stage or online.Takeaways: Effective communication is essential for achieving success in both personal and professional realms. The current education system often prioritizes grades over genuine learning and understanding. Fostering self-esteem and open communication is crucial for empowering students in their educational journey. Students should take responsibility for their education by engaging with their teachers and advocating for their needs. Educators must adapt to the changing needs of students to prepare them for the modern workplace. Resilience and empowerment are key components in helping students navigate challenges and advocate for themselves. Websitewww.timnewmanspeaks.comSocial Media InformationLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/timnewmanFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/TimNewmanSpeakingWithConfidenceInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/timnewmanspeaks/YouTube - www.youtube.com/@TimNewmanSpeaksShow 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🔥 London School of Public Relations – https://educationonfire.com/lsprA comprehensive 1-day CPD-accredited certificated Podcasting course.Some 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.

Feb 24, 2025 • 58min
Building Lasting Change in Education: Insights from Dr. James Mannion
Dr. James Mannion is a distinguished authority on educational reform. He explains the concept of "backward design," a strategic approach to implementing school improvement by beginning with clear objectives and working backward to identify solutions for current challenges. Dr. Mannion shares insights from his recent publication, "Making Change Stick," where he emphasizes the necessity of engaging educators at all levels in the change process, thereby fostering a collaborative environment that enhances student outcomes. We explore the transformative impact of project-based learning and self-regulated learning on students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, demonstrating how innovative educational practices can yield significant improvements. Takeaways: The transformative impact of learner effectiveness on student outcomes cannot be overstated, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Implementing a backward design strategy is crucial in addressing current educational challenges and achieving meaningful change. The involvement of diverse voices in the decision-making process enhances the effectiveness of school improvement initiatives. Recognizing failure as an opportunity for growth is essential in fostering resilience among both educators and students. Cultural shifts within educational institutions require sustained efforts over a period of two to three years to be effective. Engaging students in arts and creativity leads to more profound learning experiences and enhances the overall educational environment. Dr James Mannion is a keynote speaker, teacher trainer, researcher, consultant and author with a passion for educational and political reform. He is the co-founder and Director of Rethinking Education, a teacher training organisation specialising in implementation and improvement science, self-regulated learning and practitioner inquiry. A former teacher of 12 years, James has an MA in person-centred education from the University of Sussex and a PhD in self-regulated learning from the University of Cambridge. He is also the host of the popular Rethinking Education podcast. Websitewww.drjamesmannion.comwww.makingchangestick.coSocial Media InformationRethinkingJames - X, Bsky, Threads, drjamesmannion IGShow 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🔥 London School of Public Relations – https://educationonfire.com/lsprA comprehensive 1-day CPD-accredited certificated Podcasting course.Some 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.

Feb 17, 2025 • 47min
Innovations in EdTech: Insights from BETT UK
On Thursday, 23rd January, I was invited to Bett UK to interview some incredible companies leading the way in education technology. I had the chance to sit down with Jamf, a company helping schools and businesses manage Apple devices, RM, a UK-based provider of tech solutions supporting IT infrastructure in schools, and Kahoot!, the interactive quiz platform that’s transforming how students engage with learning. It was such a privilege to speak with these innovators about how they’re reshaping education.I also connected with two other amazing exhibitors: I Can Compose, a platform empowering students to explore music composition, and Eduflix, which offers high-quality educational videos and resources for both teachers and students. It was inspiring to hear how these companies are enhancing the learning experience, and I can’t wait to share those conversations with you. If you’d like to see more from my visit to Bett, I’ve also posted a video on the Education on Fire YouTube channel. Be sure to check it out for a closer look at the event and to hear more from the incredible companies I interviewed.00.00 Intro01:25 Jamf12:58 RM26:45 Kahoot43:26 I Can Compose45:06 EduFlixTakeaways: The podcast episode features interviews with innovative companies at BET UK, focusing on education technology. Jamf is providing solutions for managing Apple devices in educational settings, enhancing both security and usability. Kahoot is revolutionizing learning engagement through interactive quizzes and game-based learning environments. Ediflix offers a comprehensive educational video library specifically designed for supporting teachers and students alike. The conversation emphasizes the importance of personalized learning and the individual needs of students in educational technology. The integration of technology in education is not merely about devices but also about enriching the learning experience for all students. Links referenced in this episode:jamf.com/educationicancompose.comwww.rm.com/educationeducationonfire.comkahoot.com/schoolseduflix.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/descript🔥 London School of Public Relations – https://educationonfire.com/lsprA comprehensive 1-day CPD-accredited certificated Podcasting course.Some 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.