In this episode of the EdTechStuff podcast, I’m joined by Tom Zebedee, former Technology Director at Ofsted and now a leading voice in the human aspects of cybersecurity through his work at Cyber Culture and Blue Sock.

We explore the growing importance of cyber awareness in education, the challenges around leadership behaviours, and how culture and mindset can shape security resilience in schools. Tom also shares insight into his international work with the International Cyber Education Collaborative, comparing the UK and US education landscapes and their approaches to cybersecurity.

Whether you’re a network manager, IT lead, or school SLT member wanting to better understand how cyber essentials fit into the bigger picture, this conversation offers practical perspectives and thought-provoking reflections from someone with experience at the very top of both government and cybersecurity circles.

In this episode, I sit down with Gary Hardy, a seasoned EdTech professional and cybersecurity advocate from Atom IT Solutions. We first crossed paths at the Association for Network Managers (ANM) Conference in Birmingham, where his insights into cybersecurity for schools and Multi-Academy Trusts (MATs) caught my attention. His presentation made me rethink a challenge I’ve been grappling with—how schools can realistically manage and sustain cybersecurity protection, particularly across Microsoft 365 tenants in a cost-effective way. Gary talks about the Kaseya 365 service that Atom IT provide, and how it can radically improve and simplify the way that school IT teams can provide the experience of a SOC, without the significant investment traditionally associated with this service.

In this episode of EdTechStuff, Alex Pearce, a Microsoft MVP, discusses Microsoft licensing with a focus on the A3 and A5 licenses within educational institutions.

Key discussion points include:

A3 versus A5 Licenses: The main differences and where each license fits within schools are outlined. The four pillars of Microsoft 365 A3 are Office 365, EMS (Enterprise Mobility and Security), a Windows upgrade, and Minecraft. The A5 license enhances security with additions such as Defender and conditional access.

Value and Investment: It is important to understand the value derived from A5, especially for schools that handle large amounts of sensitive data. Evaluate whether current spending on other security products could be optimised by switching to A5.

Security Standards and Compliance: The importance of meeting Department for Education security standards and understanding how current solutions align with these standards is highlighted.

Operational Model and Training: The right training, staff, and operational model are needed to support the rollout of A5. Preparing before purchasing licences is crucial to ensure full utilisation.

Organisational Structure: How an organisation's structure, especially multi-academy trusts, can be adapted to maximise the benefits of A5, including creating specialised roles.

Risk Awareness: Create a risk report to highlight network vulnerabilities and compliance issues to senior leaders, prompting them to take notice and allocate resources.

Technical Enhancements with A5: Specific technologies within A5 are explored, such as Microsoft Entra P2 for per-application conditional access, Intune for device management, and Defender for endpoint protection.

Device Management: The challenges of managing shared devices versus one-to-one device programmes, and the implications for security and support are addressed.

Multi-Factor Authentication: The increasing need for MFA, driven by ICO requirements, and how conditional access policies can enhance data security while maintaining user convenience.

Microsoft Sentinel: Sentinel is explained as a tool for centralising and analysing logs from various sources to monitor and respond to security threats, and the cost considerations associated with its implementation.

Data Governance and Compliance: Understand data retention policies, use Microsoft Perview for data tagging and automatic deletion, and ensure compliance with government regulations.

Licensing Considerations: Exercise caution with features opened up by single A5 licences and preview features, ensuring compliance and understanding future licensing implications.

This episode aims to equip network managers, IT directors, and technicians in education with the knowledge to make informed decisions about Microsoft licensing and security.

This episode of the EdTech Stuff podcast features BrendanO'Keeffe, Director of Digital Strategy at Eatenhouse School, discussing digital strategy for schools. Brendan, who has authored articles on LinkedIn and a book titled "The Digital Strategy for Schools, a Simple Guide," shares his insights on creating comprehensive digital plans for educational institutions.

Key discussion points include:

The necessity of a digital strategy: Brendanexplains that technology is integral to modern education, not merely an add-on.He aims to provide clarity about what occurs in schools and reveal theiroperations.

The importance of a digital audit: Brendanadvises conducting a thorough digital audit to understand existing resources and avoid unnecessary expenditures. This involves assessing hardware, software licences, and network infrastructure.

Building a digital strategy team: Brendanrecommends involving the senior leadership team (SLT) and IT technicians in the process. The SLT should lead the strategy, while IT staff can offer technical expertise.

Implementation and long-term success: Thediscussion covers formulating a digital strategy plan with clear accountability and regular milestone reviews. Brendan suggests documenting progress, challenges, and adjustments to support continuous improvement.

The Think Connect Secure framework: Brendanintroduces his framework for encouraging positive digital citizenship, emphasising critical thinking, relationship-building, and establishing secure digital environments.

Brendan notes that a clear digital strategy is increasinglyimportant due to factors like inspections and the rise of AI. He offers practical advice for schools beginning their digital strategy efforts, highlighting the need for honest assessment and collaborative planning.

In this episode, we're thrilled to chat with Louise Campton from Primary Goal. With a deep passion for education, Louise shares how Primary Goal is transforming digital learning in schools. She discusses their innovative approach of placing apprentices within IT teams to support tech infrastructure and engage students in creative activities.

Louise also introduces her new venture, the Future Ready Foundation, which aims to address funding obstacles for apprenticeships through corporate sponsorships. We explore the impact of the apprenticeship levy, CSR initiatives, and the importance of digital transformation in education. Tune in to discover how Louise and her team are shaping the future of education.

For more information, contact Louise on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/louisecampton or visit the Primary Goal website at primarygoal.ac.uk.

In this episode, recorded before Christmas, I caught up with Al Kingsley before he had been awarded his MBE in the New Year's Honours List – Congratulations, Al!

It was an unscripted conversation during which we covered the evolution of edtech, from its early days to where it is now, and where it's headed. We explore the crucial role that technology has in education, not just in the classroom but across the entire school system. We also discussed the challenges of funding and prioritising tech in schools, and how to make sure that technology is truly an enabler of teaching and learning.

Al shared his insights on the importance of co-production between educators and IT teams, and the need to move beyond a purely tech-driven approach to digital strategy.

As if that were not enough, we also tackle some of the thorny issues, including the DFE standards and whether they level up or level down, the value of one-to-one devices, the importance of cybersecurity, and of course, where edtech is headed in the future.

This is a conversation that’s relevant for everyone involved in technology within education. I hope you find it as insightful and enjoyable as I did.

Al, over to you…

In this episode we welcome Austen Puleston, Head of IT at BDMAT, to discuss their journey implementing Microsoft Co-Pilot for Microsoft 365 across 19 schools.Austen shares practical insights on preparing for Co-Pilot, emphasizing the need for robust data governance, strong executive buy-in, and effective teacher training. He highlights BDMAT's proactive approach to addressing data security concerns and empowering teachers to discover the transformative potential of this AI tool.Discover how BDMAT is leveraging Co-Pilot to enhance teacher efficiency, improve work quality, and boost staff well-being, all while navigating the complexities of data privacy and ethical considerations. This episode offers valuable guidance for any school leader considering embracing the power of AI in education.

Welcome to another episode of the EdTechStuff podcast!

In this episode, I sit down with Jordan Smithson, the Trust IT Services Manager at Peterborough Keys Academy Trust (PCAT). Jordan shares his incredible journey and experiences in managing IT services within the trust, with a special focus on the innovative "iLearn" project.

We'll delve into the origins and evolution of the iLearn project, which was initially conceived in 2019 and launched in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. This ambitious project aims to enhance technology integration in education by providing one-to-one device provisions for students, both in school and at home. Jordan discusses the deployment of 1600 iPads across five academy schools and the extensive planning and collaboration involved in making this project a reality.

We'll also explore the technical and financial considerations, the educational impact, and the future goals of the iLearn project. Jordan's insights offer valuable lessons for other educational institutions looking to enhance their digital learning environments.

So, sit back, relax, and join us as we uncover the challenges and successes of integrating technology in education with Jordan Smithson.

Let's get started!

In this episode of the EdTechStuff podcast, host Martin engages in an insightful conversation with Adrian Edgar, CEO of Aspira Cloud. They explore the intricacies of migrating educational institutions to cloud-based solutions, emphasizing the importance of a people-centric approach over a purely technological one. Adrian shares his extensive experience in the education sector, discussing the challenges and benefits of cloud migration, including cost implications, user adoption, and the necessity of thorough planning and support. The discussion also highlights the significance of building strong partnerships and effective communication within schools during the transition process. Listeners will gain valuable insights into best practices for cloud migration, the role of network managers, and strategies for ensuring a smooth transition that enhances teaching and learning. Tune in for expert advice and practical tips to navigate the evolving landscape of educational technology.

Contact Adrian at AspiraCloud through their website: https://aspiracloud.com

In this, the first episode of the series, we discuss cybersecurity with Ian Stockbridge Dip HE (Open) from Secure Schools. Ian shares his expert wisdom to provide practical steps that can be taken to improve the security posture of your school or MAT. Including why you should eat salad, not burger. Enjoy the listen.

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