Edufuturists

In this episode of the podcast, we have a thought-provoking conversation with Jo Hardy, Director of Innovation at TTS (formerly RM). We explore the evolving landscape of education, emphasising the importance of innovation, the need for a supportive culture, and the role of technology in modern learning. Jo shares her insights on the challenges faced by educators, the significance of coding and computational thinking, and the impact of community engagement through charity work. The discussion highlights the necessity for educational practices to adapt to the changing world, fostering creativity and resilience among students and teachers alike. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 05:47 The Role of Innovation in Education 11:06 Creating a Culture of Innovation 16:37 The Impact of School Policies on Creativity 24:11 The Importance of Coding and Computational Thinking 32:29 Resilience and Learning from Failure 40:01 Community Engagement and Supporting Disadvantaged Children Connect with Jo 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 XFollow us on LinkedInCheck out all about Edufuturists Want to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work? Get in touchGet your tickets for Edufuturists Uprising 2025

In this episode, we get to engage with Martin Griffin, an experienced educator and author, to discuss the critical role of mindset in education. We explore the psychological components of learning, the importance of resilience, and the VESPA framework (Vision, Effort, Systems, Practice, Attitude) that can help students succeed. The conversation digs into practical strategies for fostering motivation, setting effective goals, and the influence of parental expectations on student achievement. Martin emphasises the need for educators to focus on process over product and to create vivid examples of success to inspire students. The episode concludes with quickfire questions that highlight the challenges and opportunities in the current educational landscape. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:06 Understanding Mindset in Education 05:14 The Importance of Psychological Components 09:28 Building Resilience in Students 14:26 The Jigsaw Analogy for Learning 18:58 Exploring the VESPA Framework 20:11 Vision and Motivation in Education 25:06 Approach vs. Avoidance Goals 30:53 The Role of Systems in Education 34:22 The Impact of Attention and Attitude 39:16 The Influence of Parental Mindset 52:27 Quickfire Questions and Conclusion Check out Martin's latest book Find out more about VESPA here Thanks to Crown House Publishing too for suggesting Martin and their support of the Edufuturists podcast as ever. 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 speak with Hywel Roberts about his journey as an educator and the themes explored in his new book, 'Botheredness.' We discuss the importance of nurturing practice in teaching, the need for passion and compassion in education, and the role of creativity and context in engaging students. Hywel, in his inimitable and wonderful manner, shares insights on how to get kids to care about their learning and the significance of oracy and conversation in the classroom. The conversation also touches on the challenges of transitioning from primary to secondary education and the need for a curriculum that is kind and supportive of both students and teachers. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hywel and Botheredness 02:49 The Journey of a Teacher: From Classroom to Freelance 05:58 Nurturing Practice and the Importance of Imagination in Teaching 09:13 The Oops! Book: Learning by Accident 11:55 Botheredness: Getting Kids to Care 14:56 The Role of Passion in Education 17:47 The Sherpa Analogy: Guiding Students in Learning 21:00 The Importance of Conversation and Oracy in Education 24:11 Creating Context for Learning 27:05 Transitioning from Primary to Secondary Education 30:11 The Need for Compassion in Education 32:53 Finding Humanity in the Curriculum 35:54 The Role of Creativity in Education 38:59 The Future of Education: A Call for Change 42:04 Quickfire Questions and Closing Thoughts Connect with Hywel Grab your copy of Botheredness Thanks to Crown House Publishing too for suggesting Hywel and their support of the Edufuturists podcast as ever. 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 Edufuturists podcast, we are joined by Gemma Gwilliam, Head of Digital Learning, Education and Innovation in Portsmouth. We discuss the impact of technology on education, the importance of personalisation and accessibility, and Gemma's journey through various educational roles. The conversation highlights the need for collaboration among schools, the significance of equipping students with the right tools, and the ongoing transformation in the educational landscape. Gemma shares her insights on building a supportive community and the future of education, emphasising the importance of choice and innovation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:15 Gemma's Role in Education and Technology 03:13 Challenges in Education and Communication 03:24 Navigating ADHD and Educational Innovation 06:32 A Week in the Life of an Educational Leader 09:23 The Power of Passion in Education 12:15 Gemma's Journey: From Teacher to Digital City Champion 15:29 Technology as an Enabler in Education 18:13 Personalisation and Choice in Learning 21:35 The Importance of Context in Education 24:11 Procurement Challenges in Education Technology 27:20 Building a Collaborative Educational Community 30:19 Empowering Educators Through Skill Development 33:37 The Future of Education: Autonomy and Personalisation 36:28 Quickfire Questions and Closing Thoughts 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. Connect with Gemma Find out more about Portsmouth: The Digital City Project Follow us on X Check out all past episodes Want to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work? Get in touch

In this episode of the Edufuturists podcast, we chat with Naomi Toland to further explore the concept of holistic education and the importance of understanding the whole human in the educational process. We discuss personal journeys, the creation of the Whole Human Hub, and the need for systematic change in education. The conversation emphasises the significance of rewilding education (as per a few other episodes!), building confidence, and fostering community connections. Naomi shares her experiences and insights on how to bridge gaps in education and the role of nature in learning. The episode concludes with reflections on the future of holistic education and the power of collaboration. 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. Chapters 00:00 Introductions & Back story 08:01 Why The Whole Human 12:01 Holistic Education and AI Integration 16:41 Personal Growth and Mindfulness Practices 19:55 Systemic Change in Education 22:17 Rewilding Education and Individual Growth 27:51 Building Community and Support 40:09 Emerging Trends in Holistic Education Follow Naomi on LinkedIn Check out The Whole Human Hub Follow us on X Check out all past episodes Want to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work? Get in touch

Nic Ponsford, founder and CEO of the Global Equality Collective, discusses her journey from teacher to leader in educational data collection. She highlights the necessity of accurate data to enhance inclusion and diversity in schools. The conversation revolves around shifting from a deficit model to one that meets the unique needs of students and staff. Ponsford emphasizes the importance of psychological safety, diverse thinking, and the role of technology in education, including AI and assistive technologies, to create inclusive learning environments.

In this episode, Ben Whitaker and Steve Hope are joined by Shonogh Pilgrim, CEO of Whole Education, to discuss the importance of holistic education. They explore the biases in society towards academic achievement and the undervaluing of skills and holistic development. They also discuss the need for a shift in the education system to focus on personalised education and the use of technology to enable individualised learning. The conversation highlights the collective illusions that perpetuate the current education system and the importance of educators defining their own beliefs and values. The conversation explores the need for educators to have a clear understanding of their beliefs and values in order to stand against the current education system. It highlights the importance of developing dispositions in young people and creating conditions for educators to make decisions. The conversation also touches on the need for a shift in the narrative around education, focusing on holistic learning and the development of the whole individual. It emphasises the power of collective action and networks in driving change in education. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:38 The Bias Towards Academic Achievement and Undervaluing Skills 10:22 The Need for Personalised Education and Technology 15:32 Breaking the Collective Illusions in Education 23:46 Defining Beliefs and Values in Education 35:55 Standing Against the Education System 43:25 Helping People Find Who They Are 52:03 Educating for Society 58:04 Waiting for Change from Government 01:03:47 Autonomy, Responsibility, and Accountability 01:06:34 Changing the Need to Tell Everyone What to Do 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 Check out our new website & sign up for our weekly newsletter Book your tickets for Uprising 2025 in Manchester Want to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work? Get in touch

In this episode, Ben and Steve recap the past six episodes and discuss the exciting future of the podcast. They cover a range of topics, including the role of AI in education, digital transformation, the importance of human connection, and the need for a holistic approach to learning. They also highlight the significance of igniting the inner rebel in young people and the need for a more flexible and risk-friendly education system. The conversation is filled with humour, passion, and a commitment to making a positive impact in education. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Recap 03:01 The Role of AI in Education and the Importance of Human Connection 07:05 Digital Transformation: Beyond Substitution to Redefinition 13:56 Confidence, Communication, and the Limitations of AI 17:27 Igniting the Inner Rebel: Fostering Curiosity and Risk-Taking 20:29 Moving Away from Outcome-Focused Education 24:20 Engaging Students in the Future of Education 28:13 A Rebellion for Innovation and Continuous Improvement 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 Want to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work? Get in touch: info@edufuturists.com Get your tickets for Uprising 2025

In this episode, the boys are joined by Ian Phillips to discuss the challenges of implementing digital strategies in education. They explore the cultural barriers and the need for change in organisations, particularly in independent schools. They also touch on the role of gatekeepers in decision-making and the importance of influencing them effectively. The conversation explores the importance of recruitment, retainment, and resourcing in education. It emphasises the need to equip decision-makers in schools to make informed decisions about these areas. The discussion highlights the value of investing in technology, ensuring a safe learning environment, and prioritising people-first strategies. They touch on the need for innovative approaches to teaching and learning, such as personalised learning spaces and student-centred models. The speakers share examples of successful initiatives and the impact they have had on student progress and teacher satisfaction. It underscores the significance of valuing and supporting teachers to improve education outcomes. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background03:09 Challenges in Implementing Digital Strategies04:23 Culture and Change in Independent Schools06:48 The Role of Gatekeepers in Decision-Making08:40 Resourcing, Recruitment, and Retention in Education08:48 Introduction and Importance of Recruitment, Retainment, and Resourcing11:05 Investing in Technology and Creating a Safe Learning Environment15:14 Putting People First: A Key Strategy for Education20:49 Innovative Approaches to Teaching and Learning27:57 Valuing and Supporting Teachers for Improved Education Outcomes36:40 Investing in Support Staff and Resources37:38 Moving Away from Assessment39:06 The Role of Technology39:56 Treasuring What We Measure41:11 Holistic Cultural Change in Schools42:27 Supporting Teachers and Encouraging Innovation45:16 Addressing Funding Challenges through Partnerships47:39 Inclusive Conversations and Collaboration50:04 Valuing Teachers and Professional Growth55:12 Empowering Young People and Building a Movement 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: https://www.twitter.com/edufuturists Check out all past episodes at https://www.edufuturists.com Book your tickets for Uprising2025 at: https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Manchester/53two/Edufuturists-Uprising-2025/39232238/?preview=06ee94630a Want to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work? Get in touch: info@edufuturists.com

In this episode of the Edufuturists podcast, the hosts interview Jill Matterface, an educational specialist within the military. Jill shares her journey from being a PE teacher to working in the Air Force and her passion for creating innovative training programmes. She discusses the importance of developing a 21st-century learning environment and fostering a culture of psychological safety and independent learning. The conversation also touches on the balance between compliance and innovation in the military and education sectors. The conversation explores the need for a shift in education to allow for more flexibility and individualised learning. It emphasises the importance of exposing young people to different career options and providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the future. It highlights the role of vocational education and the value of practical skills in preparing young people for the workforce. The guests discuss the need for a culture change in education and the importance of asking the right questions and challenging traditional practices. They also touch on the role of uniformed youth organisations in complementing traditional education and providing opportunities for personal growth and development. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:01 Jill's Journey from PE Teacher to Military Educational Specialist 08:04 The Importance of Culture in Education and the Military 13:53 Jill's Research on Developing a 21st-Century Learning Environment 20:24 Balancing Compliance and Innovation in the Military 25:37 Fostering Creativity and Independent Thinking in Education 29:11 Creating Pathways for Individualised Learning 36:12 Preparing Young People for the Future of Work 39:43 Challenging Traditional Practices in Education 44:03 The Role of Vocational Education in Workforce Preparation 48:22 Cultivating a Culture of Flexibility and Innovation in Education 53:37 The Impact of Uniformed Youth Organisations on Personal Growth 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 Check out our new website Book your tickets for Uprising2025 Want to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work? Get in touch: info@edufuturists.com