Edufuturists

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by Sofia Fenichell, the founder of Study Hall AI. The conversation explores Sofia's journey as an entrepreneur in the education sector, her passion for improving literacy through innovative AI solutions, and the importance of fostering agency and passion in learners. We discuss the challenges of traditional assessment methods and the need for a shift towards more engaging and effective educational practices. Sofia shares insights on the upcoming launch of College Co-Pilot, an AI-driven tool designed to assist students in the college admissions process. The episode concludes with our usual quick-fire questions too.Chapters00:00 Introduction 01:23 Sofia's Journey 04:59 The Passion Behind Entrepreneurship10:41 Introducing Study Hall AI14:54 AI with Guardrails for Safe Learning19:43 Fostering Passion and Agency26:06 Rethinking Assessment 29:30 The Future of Education and AI33:45 Navigating Assessment Grief36:35 Innovations in College Admissions40:22 Final Thoughts and Quickfire QuestionsFind out more about StudyHallThanks 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 CommunityWant 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 chat with Matt Jessop, a primary school head teacher from the North West of England who have won our Primary School of the Year TWICE! We discuss the innovative approaches Matt is implementing in his school, particularly in integrating technology and outdoor learning. The conversation digs into the challenges facing the education system, including funding issues, accountability, and the need for systemic change. Matt makes a big point about the importance of engaging students in their learning and the potential of hybrid education models to better serve diverse learners. The discussion also touches on the role of big tech in education and the necessity for a curriculum that meets the needs of today's students.Chapters00:00 Introduction02:44 Matt's Journey and School Environment06:11 Innovative Approaches in Primary Education10:51 Challenges in Education Technology and Funding15:10 Accountability and the Education System20:22 The Need for Systemic Change in Education27:18 The Evolving Skill of Learning to Learn28:05 Navigating AI and Misinformation 30:12 The Need for Reform30:51 The Fractured System32:45 Hybrid Education36:52 Vouchers and Microschools39:45 Creativity Over Regurgitation42:38 The Role of Data 44:07 A Vision for Hybrid Learning50:22 The Importance of Student Ownership in LearningConnect with Matt on LinkedInListen to Matt's Joining the Dots podcastThanks 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 CommunityWant 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 have a profound conversation with Jaz Ampaw-Farr, an educator and author, about the transformative power of teachers and the importance of human connection in education. Jaz shares her personal journey, highlighting the impact of five key teachers in her life who helped shape her resilience and success. The discussion goes deep into the challenges faced by educators, the need for mental health support, and the importance of building authentic relationships with students. Jaz emphasizes that education should focus on nurturing human skills and preparing students for an uncertain future, advocating for a shift from traditional behaviour policies to relationship-focused approaches in schools.We also dive into her latest book, Because of You, This Is Me. Grab a copyChapters00:00 Introduction01:21 Jaz's Journey and the Role of Teachers04:17 The Power of Five Teachers10:13 Navigating Trauma and Education14:22 Human First, Professional Second18:29 The Challenges of the Education System20:27 Building Relationships in Education24:52 Building Trust in Education28:40 The Importance of Authentic Relationships33:05 Human Skills vs. AI36:45 The Role of Educators in Shaping Lives43:48 Transforming Education Through RelationshipsThanks 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 Tasnuva and Ben representing the Youth Shadow Panel to discuss their part in the Shadow Curriculum & Assessment Review. This is the student voice to mirror the UK government's Curriculum & Assessment Review (CAR) led by Professor Becky Francis.Ben & Tasnuva join us as two members of a wider youth panel who represent the voices of 10.5 million children and young people. The panel gathered views from thousands of children and young people through a call for evidence, a national roadshow, school assemblies, and focus groups. Over 200 young people participated in four in-person and two online roadshow workshops, and more than 550 individuals and groups responded to their call.The report sets out 14 key recommendations which reflect the shared view from young people for an education system across four themes: building skills and relevance to life; assessments, mental health and wellbeing; climate, sustainability and citizenship education; and equity and inclusion. The recommendations are published with the hope that the CAR will adopt them in full as part of its final report, due for publication in autumn 2025, and that they will be implemented by the Department for Education thereafter.Chapters00:00 Introductions00:57 Meet the Youth Shadow Panel05:02 The Role of Youth in Education Reform10:13 Key Recommendations from the Youth Shadow Panel14:47 The Importance of Life Skills and Enrichment20:00 Rethinking Assessment and Mental Health25:02 The Future of Education and AI29:47 The Role of Citizenship in Education34:11 Outdoor Learning and Its Importance37:12 Political Literacy and Youth Engagement38:19 Creating Equitable and Inclusive Education45:17 The Future of Education ReformRead the full reportShow your support by adding your endorsement for the reportThanks 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 chat with the wonderful Gwyn ap Harri, the CEO of XP Trust, to explore innovative educational practices and the importance of character building in schools. One of Gwyn's schools, XP Gateshead won Edufuturists Secondary School of the Year 2025.Gwyn discusses the concept of 'crew' as a foundational element of XP Trust's approach, emphasising the need for a shared language and community engagement. The conversation goes down lots of rabbit holes into the significance of curriculum design that connects students to their local history and culture, fostering civic pride and a sense of belonging. He also shares insights on the future of education, advocating for a shift towards valuing character alongside academic achievements, drawing lots of inspiration from schools like High Tech High and Expeditionary Learning.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:06 Journey to XP Trust02:07 Inspiration from High Tech High07:00 The Concept of Crew in Education12:21 Building Relationships Through Crew17:15 Curriculum Integration and Expeditions22:17 Community Engagement and Education23:13 The Importance of Local Context in Education24:34 Empowering Working-Class Voices26:14 Dignity and Identity in Education28:51 Inspiring Change Makers30:57 Navigating Compliance and Creativity in Education34:36 Inevitability of Change in Education38:02 Humility and Impact in Educational Leadership40:23 Quickfire Questions and ReflectionsThanks 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 Edufuturists podcast, we talk to Kathryn McColl and Brogan Pierce from Hark about their Listen Up Report, which uncovers why confidence drops during key school transitions, who’s most affected, and what educators and employers can do to close the gap. Nearly 1 in 3 young people in the UK lack confidence - a hidden barrier to learning, career opportunities, and life chances. This isn’t just about shyness. It’s about a systemic issue that shapes learning, limits life chances, and affects the future workforce. Together, we explore The “Unheard Third” - who they are, and why they’re being overlooked, as well as why confidence often plummets during school transitions. We dive into how low confidence keeps young people from speaking up, joining in, or taking opportunities and what schools, employers, and communities can do to create emotionally safe, empowering spaces. Kathryn and Brogan share stories from the report, unpack the role of gender, background, and region in shaping confidence, and show how practical interventions, from classroom culture to early employer engagement, can change the game. This is a values-driven, action-focused conversation for educators, school leaders, businesses, and anyone committed to building a more inclusive future for young people. Chapters00:00 Introduction01:41 Understanding Hark and the Listen Up Report02:47 The Importance of Confidence in Young People10:15 The Impact of Lack of Confidence on Behaviour19:44 Disparities in Confidence Among Different Groups25:58 Exploring the Causes of the Confidence Crisis44:09 Practical Solutions for Building Confidence50:55 Quickfire Questions and Closing ThoughtsYou can download the Listen Up report hereAbout Hark Hark works with schools, businesses, and brands to build the confidence, skills, and inclusion young people need to thrive - through research, national programmes, and real-world experiences. Find out moreThanks 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, 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