In this episode of the podcast, we welcome Sophie Pickles, who Ben met out in Dubai at a gathering curated by the awesome, Simon Blower. Sophie is an educational consultant and author and discusses her journey in education, focusing on child-led learning and the importance of play in early years education.  Sophie shares her experiences transitioning from traditional teaching methods to a more child-centred approach, highlighting the challenges faced in the education system, including parental expectations and the need for educational reform. The conversation emphasises the significance of fostering children's wellbeing and autonomy, questioning outdated practices like homework, and the necessity of innovative training for educators. Sophie also discusses her work in parenting education and the growing community of parents seeking alternative educational options for their children. Chapters 00:00 Welcome and Introduction06:30 Child-Led Learning: A New Approach10:51 Challenges in Early Years Education14:55 The Importance of Play in Learning19:54 Questioning the Education System25:20 Parenting and Education: Bridging the Gap31:45 Innovative Training for Educators39:48 Quickfire Questions and Closing Thoughts Follow Sophie on LinkedIn Follow Sophie on Instagram Subscribe to her Parenting YouTube channel Thanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you. Ben & Steve x Championing those who are making the future of education a reality. 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, Steve does a solo interview with Ben  about his upcoming book, The Ideas Guy: Unleash Your Inner Genius. They explore the origins of Ben's identity as 'The Ideas Guy', the influences that shaped his thinking, and the importance of authenticity in personal and professional development. The discussion also goes into the metaphor of a dinner party to illustrate how Ben curates ideas and insights from various influential figures, emphasising the need for a structured approach to creativity and innovation.  In this conversation, we explore the themes of authenticity, leadership, and personal development. We discuss the importance of shining one's light and being true to oneself, the role of coaching in leadership, and the concept of unleashing one's inner genius. The discussion also touches on the purpose of Ben's book, which aims to help individuals discover and frame their unique ideas and potential. Grab a copy of Ben's book here Chapters 00:00 Introduction02:00 The Birth of the Ideas Guy (not literally!)07:41 Influences and Inspirations12:42 The Dinner Party Metaphor21:25 The Importance of Authenticity26:54 Shining Your Light: Authenticity in Leadership32:14 The Role of Coaching in Leadership39:03 Unleashing Your Inner Genius46:49 The Purpose of the Ideas Guy Book Thanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you. 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 engage in a lively conversation with Leisa Grace Wilson, an educator and leader based in Abu Dhabi. We discuss Leisa's journey from the UK to the Middle East, the challenges and opportunities of leading in a culturally diverse environment, and the rapid pace of educational reform in the region. Leisa shares insights on the importance of community for educators, the role of her platform Teach Middle East, and the impact of her podcast. The conversation also touches on the significance of using LinkedIn for professional growth and the courage it takes to pivot in one's career. Find out more about Leisa and her work via the links below: Teach Middle East Magazine Leisa Grace Linkedin The Middle East School Leadership Conference The AI in Education Summit 2025 Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:45 Leisa's Journey to the Middle East 06:29 Cultural Navigation in Leadership 09:18 Rapid Development in Abu Dhabi's Education 12:27 Future-Proofing Education 19:59 Teach Middle East: A Resource for Educators 22:36 Creating Community for Educators 26:11 The Importance of Staff Rooms and Community Spaces 30:02 The Importance of Social Interaction in Education 31:40 Insights from the Teach Middle East Podcast 34:20 The Passion Behind Podcasting 37:26 The Value of Long-Form Conversations 39:49 Understanding Educational Leadership 41:55 Personalised Professional Development in Education 46:20 Creating Meaningful Connections at Events 56:42 Leveraging LinkedIn for Educators 01:00:42 The Courage to Pivot in EducationThanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you. 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 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 final episode of 2024, we reflect on the year's highlights, discussing significant themes in education, including assessment, innovation, and the role of technology. We review key podcast episodes, including conversations with influential guests and their experiences at events like BETT and the Brilliant Festival. The discussion emphasises the importance of contextualising technology in education and looking forward to the opportunities that 2025 will bring. In this conversation, we reflect on Uprising 2024, celebrating its success and the vibrant community that supports it, which we will make happen again in Manchester in June 2025. We discuss the importance of recognising individuals making a difference in education, the excitement for future events, and the role of technology as an enabler in education. We talk about the need for authenticity in their discussions and the importance of calling out ineffective practices in the education system. The conversation is filled with enthusiasm for the future and a commitment to meaningful change in education. Chapters 00:00 2024 Reflections and Future Gazing 01:47 Assessment and Innovation in Education 08:02 BETT and Media Partnerships 12:04 Highlights from the Brilliant Festival 16:11 Conversations with Education Leaders 19:48 AI in Education: Contextualising Technology 22:53 Looking Ahead to 2025 24:47 Celebrating the Uprising Event 26:51 Community and Awards Recognition 28:53 Looking Ahead to 2025 30:20 Engaging with Global Partners 32:34 Technology as an Enabler in Education 35:48 The Future of Education and Innovation 38:04 Calling Out the System 40:39 Authenticity and Fun in Conversations Thanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you. 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, we chat with 2024 Edufuturists' AI Pioneer of the Year, Matthew Wemyss, about the sensible integration of AI in education, the importance of community building, and the challenges of personalisation and equity in learning. Matthew shares his journey in education, his role in a British overseas school in Romania, and how he utilises AI tools like ChatGPT to enhance teaching strategies and support teachers. The conversation also touches on the need for investment in educational technology to ensure all students have access to learning resources, particularly in the wake of the digital divide exacerbated by the pandemic. In this conversation, we explore the intersection of AI and education, discussing the need for better partnerships between tech companies and schools, the necessity of reflective practices for educators and the potential of AI to empower students in their learning journeys.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:12 Matthew's Journey and Role in Education 08:12 Integrating AI in Education: Strategies and Challenges 16:25 The Role of AI in Personalisation and Teacher Support 22:01 Equity in Education: Addressing the Digital Divide 25:58 The Role of AI in Education Partnerships 30:08 Personalisation and Equity in Education 34:09 Reflective Practices in Teaching with AI 43:28 Empowering Students through AI 46:40 Rethinking Assessment and Learning Success Get Matthew's Educator's Handbook and Student's Handbook Thanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you. 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, it's a mashup of our conversations from the Brilliant Festival in Liverpool back in October. Our live interview on the main stage with Nachelle Crowther, Hugh Viney and Tom Rogerson has already gone out (check that out here). This one is from our little booth at the show where we got to chat with some incredible guests and speakers. (Don't judge Ben for being on his phone - he is sharing on social media live from the show!) Chapters 00:00 Introductions 02:20 James Fraser-Murison 15:14 Matthew Wemyss 28:10 Lauren Walker & Sam D 42:24 Simone Roche 55:32 Steve Baker & Matt Littler Thanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you. 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 Find out all about Uprising 2025 and get your tickets

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by David Cameron and Mick Waters to discuss the legacy of Sir Tim Brighouse, a significant figure in UK education. They explore Tim's influence, personal stories, and the concept of 'unfinished business' in education, emphasising the importance of continuous improvement and community engagement. The conversation highlights the need for actionable steps in education and the lasting impact of Tim's work. The conversation reflects on the legacy of people like Sir Tim and others like Sir Ken Robinson and David Price, focusing on the importance of teacher empowerment, the challenges of compliance in education, and the need for a more human-centred approach to teaching. We discuss the impact of politics on education, the necessity of autonomy for teachers, and the significance of inclusion and accessibility in the educational landscape. They advocate for a shift in metrics and accountability, focusing on strengths rather than compliance, and highlight the call to action for educators to retain joy and purpose in their profession. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:01 Legacy of Sir Tim Brighouse 05:04 Personal Stories and Memories of Tim 08:12 Influence and Impact of Tim's Work 12:10 The Unfinished Business of Education 18:10 Continuous Improvement in Education 24:21 Legacy of Tim and David Price 25:29 Empowering Teachers for Progress 27:43 The Role of Politics in Education 28:12 A Call to Action for Teachers 30:36 The Challenge of Compliance in Education 31:06 Metrics and Accountability in Education 33:01 Finding Strengths in Education 34:27 The Bigger Picture Beyond Schools 37:12 Inclusion and Accessibility in Education 39:55 The Need for Autonomy in Teaching 40:36 Humanity and Purpose in Education Thanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you. 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 Find out all about Uprising 2025 and get your tickets

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by Neelam Parmar and Duncan Verry to discuss the upcoming BETT UK event, its significance in the education technology landscape, and the importance of community engagement. Duncan Verry is the Portfolio Director for BETT and Dr Neelam Parmar is Director of Professional Learning and Online Education at AISL Harrow Schools, as well as being a judge for the BETT Awards. Neelam shares her extensive experience attending BETT, emphasising the value of learning and networking. Duncan discusses his new role and the global perspective of education technology, highlighting the common challenges faced by educators worldwide. The conversation also touches on the importance of including teacher voices in discussions about educational policy and practice, as well as the launch of the EdTech Buyers Guide to help educators make informed decisions about technology investments. In this conversation, we discuss the importance of having a clear digital strategy in education, the challenges of digital transformation, and the role of EdTech tools in enhancing educational outcomes. We focus on the need for accessibility and inclusion in technology, as well as the significance of networking and collaboration among educators to ensure successful tech adoption. Grab your copy of the EdTech Buyers Guide Get your tickets for BETT 2025 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to BETT 02:09 Neelam's Journey and Experience at BETT 05:14 Duncan's Role and Insights on BETT 08:03 Global Perspectives on Education and Technology 11:15 The Importance of Community in Education 14:01 Bringing Teacher Voices to the Forefront 15:02 Understanding Practical Applications in Education 18:25 The EdTech Buyers Guide and Strategic Planning 22:35 Understanding Digital Strategy in Education 25:20 Navigating Digital Transformation Challenges 30:50 Leveraging EdTech Tools for Effective Implementation 37:31 Ensuring Accessibility and Inclusion in EdTech 40:55 Building a Network for Successful Tech Adoption Thanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you. 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 Nominate someone for an award NOW

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by Louise Attwood, the subject lead for design technology and computer science at AQA. The conversation explores the evolving landscape of education, particularly in the areas of curriculum development and assessment. Louise shares her journey from being a design and technology teacher to her current role, emphasising the importance of interdisciplinary connections in education. The discussion also looks into the challenges of keeping curricula relevant in a fast-paced world, the role of Ofqual in maintaining standards, and innovative assessment practices that cater to diverse student needs. We passionately discuss the evolving landscape of education assessment, not ignoring the need for innovative methods that go beyond traditional exams. We explore the importance of meeting students where they are, the role of technology in assessments, and the necessity of critical thinking skills in preparing students for the future. The dialogue also highlights the importance of engaging diverse voices in educational reform to ensure a more inclusive and effective system. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Context Setting 03:51 Interdisciplinary Connections in Education 06:19 Challenges in Curriculum Development 11:01 The Role of Ofqual in Education 14:51 Louise's Journey in Education 20:35 The Importance of Assessment 24:47 Innovations in Assessment Practices 28:39 Rethinking Assessment in Education 32:21 Innovative Assessment Methods and Technology 35:52 Meeting Students Where They Are 39:29 The Role of Critical Thinking in Education 43:41 Engaging Diverse Voices in Educational Reform 51:01 Quickfire Questions and Final Thoughts Louise talked about AQA Stride, which you can find out more about here Thanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you. Ben & Steve x Championing those who are making the future of education a reality. Follow us on X Connect with 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