Edufuturists

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.

Chapters

00:00 Introductions

01:31 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 Education

Matt mentioned a self-evaluation tool which you can access, alongside much of his work around equity here

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 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.

Chapters

00:00 Introductions

01:36 Meet Leonie Briggs and Amaze Lab

04:24 The Journey to Amaze Lab

09:49 Exploring the Book: Make Your Own Rainbow

11:58 Real-Life Applications of STEM and STEAM

17:05 The Importance of Play in Learning

20:32 Linking Subjects: The Case for STEAM

27:05 Community Engagement and Workshops

28:41 Quickfire Questions Ben & Steve x

Find out more about Amaze Lab

Grab a copy of Leonie's book, Make Your Own Rainbow

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.

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 [email protected] or 01293520648 to book your tickets

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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.

Chapters

00:00 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 Questions

Find out more about Third Space

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.

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 ⁠[email protected]⁠ or 01293520648 to book your tickets

Follow us on X

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Check 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 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.

Chapters

00:00 Celebrating Milestones and Future Plans

02:25 John Tomsett: A Journey Through Education

05:54 Gaining Perspective: From Headteacher to Education Consultant

11:45 The Importance of Checking for Understanding

17:33 Curriculum Content - Need to Know vs. Neat to Know

20:23 Exploring Great Teaching

34:27 The Joy of Learning vs. Grades

35:15 Rethinking Curriculum and Assessment

36:22 Engagement Over Rhetoric in Teaching

39:22 The Importance of Philosophy in Education

40:49 Success and Self-Concept in Education

46:09 Mental Health and Effective Teaching

51:11 Creating a Culture of Love 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.

Grab copies of John's books

Subscribe to John's blog

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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 Community

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 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.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:08 Emma Darcy's Journey in EdTech

03:23 Interchangeable Insights: School and Trust Dynamics

06:18 The Value of Networking in Education

09:24 Professional Generosity and Community Support

21:07 Apps for Good: Empowering Students through Technology

29:45 AI as a Disruptor in Education

39:35 Sustaining Passion in EdTech

42:41 Celebrating Community and Achievements

46:04 Quickfire Questions: Insights and Reflections

Check out Apps for Good

Check out the DfE AI Toolkits that Emma helped to design

Connect with Emma

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 welcome Christian Turton, the EdTech Lead at Chiltern Learning Trust. We discuss the evolving role of technology in education, particularly the integration of AI. Christian shares insights on the Department for Education's recent guidance on Generative AI in schools, emphasising the importance of safe and effective use.

The conversation highlights the positive reception among educators of the AI toolkits he has developed and the need for a shift in mindset towards technology in learning. We also address concerns about AI's impact on creativity and the necessity of preparing students for a tech-driven future.Chapters00:00 Introduction05:22 The Role of Innovation in Education10:02 Christian's Journey in EdTech15:27 Generative AI in Education: DfE Guidance21:04 Navigating AI's Role in the Classroom27:06 Navigating AI in Education29:55 Positive Reception and Community Engagement33:19 Addressing Concerns and Misconceptions35:37 Safeguarding Students in the Age of AI37:55 Comparative Insights from Global AI Policies39:43 Measuring Impact and Future Directions42:46 Creativity and AI in the Arts45:41 Quickfire Questions and Final ThoughtsFind out all about the DfE's new AI ToolkitsThanks 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 joined by Matt Bowman, founder of OpenEd, to discuss the evolution of education and the importance of personalised learning. We explore how traditional education systems are failing to meet the needs of diverse learners and the role of technology, particularly AI, in shaping the future of education. Matt talks about the need for parents to take an active role in their children's education and the importance of creating engaging learning environments that foster joy and curiosity. The conversation also touches on critical thinking, problem-solving, and the potential for community involvement in education.Chapters00:00 Introduction02:06 Matt's Journey in Education05:18 The Evolution of Online Learning06:14 Tailoring Education to Individual Needs07:46 Changing Attitudes Towards Education11:04 Rethinking Traditional Education Pathways11:42 Intentional Education Planning for Parents14:35 The Shift in Parental Perspectives16:02 Fostering a Love for Learning19:18 Creating Engaging Learning Environments23:00 The Flaws of Standardised Testing25:39 Flexibility in Education for Gifted Students28:17 Empowering Student Agency in Education31:25 The Role of Guardrails in Learning33:12 Tailoring Education to Individual Needs36:33 Transforming Traditional Education Systems40:32 Rethinking Intelligence and Learning44:47 Fostering Critical Thinking Through Real-World Problems49:20 Innovative Funding Solutions for EducationWe mentioned a blog post about Marilyn vos Savant - that's hereGrab a copy of Matt's bookCheck out Open Ed AcademyThanks 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