This episode of the podcast is a big review of some of our most recent episodes and the lessons we have learned from them. The conversation explores the readiness and agility of young people in the face of change, juxtaposed (what a great word, btw!) with scepticism about the future developments and their potential impact. We always speak with hope (just Steve Hope) while acknowledging the challenges and uncertainties ahead.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 video here to find out more and join us for ISE 2026 in Push Beyond, use our special code 'edufuturists' for free registration hereChapters00:00 Introductions (and Waffle!)02:32 Celebrating New Developments and Announcements06:53 Upcoming Events and Community Engagement12:57 Reviewing Notable Podcast Episodes22:44 Exploring the Impact of Educators28:56 Youth Perspectives on Education Reform30:46 Confidence and Equity 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
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Edufuturists #315 Dare to Discover with Hilary Leevers & Maddie Dinwoodies
In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by Hilary Leevers and Maddie Dinwoodie from Engineering UK to discuss the importance of engineering education and the upcoming Tomorrow's Engineers Week. We explore the need for diversity in the engineering workforce, the significance of linking engineering to young people's passions, and the role of education in preparing students for future challenges, including climate change. The conversation emphasises the importance of resilience, problem-solving skills, and the need to alleviate anxiety in students regarding their educational paths. Together, they unpack how teachers can use the free Tomorrow’s Engineers Week resources to help students see the real-world possibilities of engineering, connect their passions to meaningful careers, and celebrate the power of problem-solving.Chapters00:00 Introductions01:56 Understanding Engineering UK and Its Mission04:25 The Importance of Engineering in Society10:02 Tomorrow's Engineers Week11:56 Dare to Discover15:26 Connecting Passions to Engineering Careers17:41 Embedding Engineering in Education22:33 Preparing for the Future of Work23:51 Future Skills and Workforce Needs26:15 Embracing Failure in Education29:49 Tackling Climate Change through Engineering33:13 Diversity and Inclusion in Engineering37:32 Rethinking Education for the FutureTE Week 2025 offers free, ready-to-use resources for teachers including:Lesson plans, assemblies, and video case studiesHands-on, practical classroom activitiesReal stories from diverse engineers and techniciansLive Q&A panels where students can ask engineers their own questionsFind out more EngineeringUK 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 LinkedInFollow us on TikTokJoin 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
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Edufuturists #314 Words Really Matter with Sofia Fenichell
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
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Edufuturists #313 The System is Failing Our Kids with Matt Jessop
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
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Edufuturists #312 Because of You, This Is Me with Jaz Ampaw-Farr
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
We are led to believe that the education system will continually evolve to meet the needs of learners and society. This has not happened. We need a revolution!
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