Edufuturists

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