Edufuturists

In this episode of the podcast, we welcome Alex More, an educational consultant with a rich background in teaching and leadership. The conversation explores Alex's transition from classroom teaching to consultancy, the complexities of continuing professional development (CPD), and the challenges of implementing innovative methodologies in education.We discuss the importance of STEM education, the role of student voice, and the environmental impact of AI. Alex shares insights from his research and the engaging AI sprints he has initiated to foster community dialogue around AI in education. The episode concludes with a discussion on responsible AI use and Alex's involvement with TeachMate AI, emphasising the need for integrity and social responsibility in educational technology.Chapters00:00 Introductions01:14 Alex's Background and Transition to Consultancy02:46 Understanding CPD in Education04:27 Navigating the Transition from Classroom to Consultancy08:19 Strategies for Effective CPD Delivery10:36 Innovations in Education and Resistance to Change13:13 The Importance of Context in Education13:43 Exploring Gender Divides in STEM Education16:22 Interdisciplinary Learning and Real-World Connections19:10 Research and Innovation in Education21:43 The Messiness of Learning and Isomorphism in Education26:42 The Flaws in Student Voice Methodology29:33 Researching Student Perspectives on AI34:24 Engaging Stakeholders in Education38:10 The Environmental Impact of AI44:00 AI Sprints47:55 Joining TeachMate AI50:01 Quickfire QuestionsConnect with Alex on LinkedInFind out more about AI SprintsGet a trial of Teachmate AI by completing this formThanks 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: [email protected] your tickets for Edufuturists Uprising 2026 at: edufuturists.com/uprising26

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by creator of Lights On Learning, Julia Black who is a BAFTA and Grierson nominated documentary director, social entrepreneur and Master Neurocoach. Julia hosts an online global community for parents who are supporting learning in their own homes. Julia also discusses her new book, Lights On Learning.Find out more about Julia's work at lightsonuniverse.comChapters00:00 Introduction02:52 Understanding Human Flourishing06:27 The Importance of Lights On and Lights Off11:22 Heartset, Mindset, and Skillset in Education20:15 Practical Applications of Passionate Learning24:50 Transforming Learning Through Heartset and Mindset28:41 The Role of Parents in Education32:48 Creating a Collaborative Learning Environment36:47 Empowering Parents and Children45:04 Agency and Autonomy 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 LinkedIn Check out all about EdufuturistsWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work? Get in touch Get your tickets for Edufuturists Uprising 2026CONTENT PARTNER AD: This episode is powered by Integrated Systems Europe, the must-attend event for educators, technologists, and institutional leaders seeking to shape the future of learning. From 3–6 February 2026, ISE returns to Barcelona, uniting the brightest minds and boldest ideas in the edtech industry. Join us and Push Beyond the possibilities that are transforming the classroom of tomorrow. Don’t just keep up with the industry - get ahead of it. Check out the website to find out more and join us for ISE 2026 in Push Beyond. Use our special code 'edufuturists' for free registration here

In this special episode of the podcast, we have a wonderful concoction from Brilliant Festival in Liverpool. We did some short interviews with some of the speakers and also presented our first thoughts around the Pick 'n' Mix Education we have been writing about for our upcoming book. The Brilliant Festival saw more than 1,500 educators from across the north, a region that has traditionally been underserved for this type of event. This audience includes Head Teachers, MAT Leaders, Business Managers, IT Professionals, Curriculum Specialists, Subject Leaders, STEAM Leads, Careers Leads; all looking for new, innovative ways to enhance teaching and learning, integrate technology effectively, develop inclusive curriculum, foster creativity and critical thinking, and prepare students for the future workforce.Chapters00:00 Welcome to Brilliant03:15 Pick 'n' Mix Education Presentation25:07 Phil Holton - Pearson28:30 Tiffany St James - Chief AI Officer, LCR34:04 Professor Andy Miah - University of Salford41:10 Sara de Freitas - Weypoint46:18 Paul Boross - The Pitch Doctor53:01 Shahneila Saeed - UKIE59:38 Final ConclusionsFind out more about Brilliant 2026 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 LinkedInFollow us on TikTokWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work? Get in touchJoin us at one of our roadshow eventsGet your tickets for Edufuturists Uprising 2026

CONTENT PARTNER AD: This episode is powered by Integrated Systems Europe, the must-attend event for educators, technologists, and institutional leaders seeking to shape the future of learning. From 3–6 February 2026, ISE returns to Barcelona, uniting the brightest minds and boldest ideas in the edtech industry. Join us and Push Beyond the possibilities that are transforming the classroom of tomorrow. Don’t just keep up with the industry - get ahead of it. Check out the website to find out more and join us for ISE 2026 in Push Beyond. Use our special code 'edufuturists' for free registration here

In this episode of the podcast, we get to chat Hugh Viney, the founder and CEO of Minerva Virtual Academy (MVA), winner of an award at Uprising 2025 and the fastest growing school in the UK. We explore the innovative approach of MVA, which offers a hybrid model of education designed to cater to students who do not thrive in traditional school settings. Hugh shares the founding story of MVA, the challenges faced by students in mainstream education, and the unique solutions MVA provides. The conversation digs into the importance of community, the barriers to happiness in education, and the future of schooling as a choice-driven landscape.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:25 Hugh Viney's Background and Minerva Virtual Academy04:18 The Need for Alternative Education Models11:13 Breaking Down Barriers to Learning15:39 The Impact of Hybrid Learning on Athletes19:44 Preparing for Life Beyond Sports22:30 Navigating Educational Challenges23:21 The Evolution of MVA25:05 Engagement and Recognition in Education27:27 Socialisation and Community Building in Online Learning30:44 Parental Perspectives and Systemic Challenges33:39 Future Directions36:58 Technological Innovations in Education39:15 The Human Element in Online LearningFind out more about MVAThanks 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 touchGet your tickets for Edufuturists Uprising 2026
CONTENT PARTNER AD: This episode is powered by Integrated Systems Europe, the must-attend event for educators, technologists, and institutional leaders seeking to shape the future of learning. From 3–6 February 2026, ISE returns to Barcelona, uniting the brightest minds and boldest ideas in the edtech industry. Join us and Push Beyond the possibilities that are transforming the classroom of tomorrow. Don’t just keep up with the industry - get ahead of it. Check out the website to find out more and join us for ISE 2026 in Push Beyond. Use our special code 'edufuturists' for free registration here

In this episode of the podcast, we have the privilege of chatting with Steve Rigby, Chief Executive of the Rigby Group and philanthropist focused on making a difference in education. The Rigby Group employ more than 8000 people across Europe with a turnover of £4billion.We discuss the intersection of technology and education, the importance of social mobility, and the role of the Rigby Foundation in supporting disadvantaged students. The conversation also touches on the challenges of school attendance, the need for parental involvement, and the future of AI in education. Steve shares generously about the importance of leadership in schools, how to build strong culture and the necessity of adapting to new societal changes.Chapters00:00 Introductions01:19 Meet Steve Rigby - Philanthropist and Business Leader02:34 The Role of Technology in Education05:22 A Focus on Social Justice07:59 Inspiring Futures10:20 Addressing Attendance and Engagement Issues15:22 The Importance of Parental Involvement18:47 Leadership in Education21:26 The Future of AI in Education33:18 Navigating the Challenges of AI and ProductivityFind out more about the work of The Rigby FoundationCONTENT PARTNER AD: This episode is powered by Integrated Systems Europe, the must-attend event for educators, technologists, and institutional leaders seeking to shape the future of learning. From 3–6 February 2026, ISE returns to Barcelona, uniting the brightest minds and boldest ideas in the edtech industry. Join us and Push Beyond the possibilities that are transforming the classroom of tomorrow. Don’t just keep up with the industry - get ahead of it. Check out the website to find out more and join us for ISE 2026 in Push Beyond. Use our special code 'edufuturists' for free registration 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 X
Follow us on LinkedInCheck out all about EdufuturistsWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work? Get in touchGet your tickets for Edufuturists Uprising 2026