The Edtech Podcast

Episode Summary
In this episode of The EdTech Podcast, we explore how schools, families and EdTech providers can better support children's wellbeing, inclusion and safety in an increasingly digital world.
Louise Dawson shares insights on inclusive education, personalised learning, safeguarding, data protection and the importance of belonging and connection in every learning environment. She highlights how technology can support diverse learners when implemented strategically, with clear policies, strong teacher preparation and a community-wide understanding of digital responsibility.
Harrison Parker, Executive Vice President of Linewise, joins the conversation to discuss student wellbeing, screen time, digital distractions, cyberbullying, AI chatbots and the growing challenges schools and parents face in managing children's online lives. He explains how Linewise supports schools and families with tools that help monitor, manage and guide technology use, while reducing friction between children, parents and educators.
Together, these conversations explore a vital question for education today: how do we ensure technology empowers learning, protects children and strengthens connection, rather than creating greater risk, distraction or exclusion?
Action Items
Review and update safeguarding policies to reflect current EdTech use, AI risks and digital wellbeing concerns.
Ensure data protection and privacy principles are embedded into EdTech procurement and implementation.
Develop a whole-school strategy for technology use that includes inclusion, safeguarding, teaching and learning, and parent engagement.
Provide staff training on classroom technology management, digital distractions and emerging AI-related risks.
Support parents with practical tools and guidance for managing screen time at home.
Create opportunities for families, schools and students to discuss healthy digital habits together.
Use data trends to identify early signs of harmful online behaviour, cyberbullying or wellbeing concerns.
Embed digital literacy into the curriculum so students understand both the opportunities and risks of technology.
Key Topics
Digital wellbeing and student safety
Inclusive education and personalised learning
Safeguarding and data protection in EdTech
Screen time management at home and school
Digital distractions and classroom management
AI chatbots, cyberbullying and emerging online risks
Parental involvement in digital safety
Technology as a support for diverse learners
Teacher preparedness and strategic EdTech implementation
Community, belonging and connection in digital education
Using data to identify harmful trends and support intervention
Collaboration between schools, parents and EdTech providers
Guest Names
Louise Dawson - Louise Dawson Professional and Management Development Training www.louisedawson.com
Harrison Parker, Executive Vice President, Linewise https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrison-parker-02951921 
Linewise: https://www.linewize.com/ 
Key Frameworks and Concepts
Universal Design for Learning
Data Protection Principles
Digital Safeguarding
Screen Time Management
Digital Literacy
Parent-School Partnership
AI Risk Awareness
Whole-School EdTech Strategy
 
Chapter Outline
00:00 – Introduction to Inclusive Education and Digital Wellbeing
Setting the scene for a conversation about EdTech, inclusion, safeguarding and student safety.
03:06 – The Role of EdTech in Supporting Learning
Louise Dawson explores how technology can support diverse learners and enable more personalised learning experiences.
05:48 – Challenges in Implementing Technology in Classrooms
Discussion around teacher confidence, strategic planning and the risks of poorly implemented EdTech.
08:36 – Teacher Preparedness and EdTech Integration
Why training, clarity and purpose matter when introducing technology into learning environments.
11:23 – Data Protection and Safeguarding in EdTech
Exploring the importance of safeguarding, privacy and accountability in digital education.
14:14 – The Importance of Community and Connection
Louise reflects on belonging, inclusion and the role of relationships in supporting young people.
17:03 – Navigating Technology Use at Home
How schools and families can work together to support healthy technology habits.
20:16 – Introduction to Harrison Parker and Linewise
Harrison shares his journey into education and the mission behind Linewise.
23:17 – The Evolution of Technology in Education
How classroom technology has changed and what this means for students, teachers and parents.
27:47 – Digital Distractions and Screen Time Challenges
Exploring the impact of phones, apps and always-on access on learning and wellbeing.
30:10 – Classroom Management and Technology Integration
How schools can manage devices in a way that supports teaching rather than creating friction.
32:23 – Empowering Parents with Technology
Why simple, practical parental tools are essential for creating healthier digital boundaries.
34:17 – Positive Trends in Student Behaviour
How monitoring and management tools can help reduce harmful events and support earlier intervention.
38:00 – AI, Cyberbullying and Emerging Online Risks
The rise of AI-generated harm, voice replication, chatbots and new safeguarding challenges.
43:42 – Future Directions in EdTech and Child Safety
The need for collaboration between families, schools, policymakers and technology providers.
Resources
UAE Law on Digital Safety – https://example.com/uae-digital-safety-law
Inclusive Education Strategies – https://amazon.com/inclusive-education-strategies
EdTech Safeguarding Guidelines – https://example.com/edtech-safeguarding

Join us as we explore the evolving landscape of education with Ben Whitaker, known as the Ideas Guy. With a background in religious studies and a passion for edtech, Ben dives into the importance of critical thinking, the role of AI, and how technology can transform teaching and learning. This episode offers insights for educators, policymakers, and innovators shaping the future of education.
Main Content 
Ben Whitaker's journey from religious studies teacher to edtech influencer and co-host of the eduFuturist podcast
The evolution of Religious Education (RE) and its discursive, philosophy-based approach that fosters deep discussions
How skills like critical thinking and examining multiple viewpoints are vital across different disciplines
The origins and development of the eduFuturist podcast, focusing on future education and its broad scope beyond schools
The ongoing challenge of educational technology usage: why some teachers still don't use simple tools effectively
Debunking the myth that technology in education is less effective than traditional methods
The concept of a "wolf pack" in education: collaboration and community as the strength of future learning ecosystems
How AI and edtech won't replace teachers but will be embraced by those who adapt to change
The importance of balancing knowledge and skills, core and extracurricular activities, and a holistic approach to education
Future visions: a "pick-and-mix" model where parents and students have increased control over personalized learning pathways
The influence of environment and personalization in student success, emphasizing diverse educational settings
Ben's new book, "The Ideas Guy," showcasing insights from influential thinkers to inspire lateral thinking
The power of understanding and managing neurodiversity like ADHD in education and the idea of superpowers in unique thinking styles
Insights from Ben's international travel, including conferences in Cape Town and Bucharest, and the importance of global community building
Upcoming initiatives: eduFuturist awards, regional community building, and ongoing projects to shape future education
Track List
00:00 - Introduction to Ben Whitaker and his journey from religious studies teacher to edtech advocate
00:13 - The evolution of Religious Education and its discussion-driven approach
00:50 - The role of critical thinking and diverse viewpoints in teaching and leadership
02:04 - How education's future is shaped by community and collaboration
03:41 - The influence of diverse experiences in edtech, including coaching and speaking engagements
04:03 - The origins of eduFuturist and its focus on future and current educational challenges
06:03 - Why some educators still underutilize simple edtech tools
07:20 - Addressing misconceptions about technology and learning effectiveness
09:07 - The recurring themes and trends in edtech over the past decade
09:46 - The "wolf pack" concept: strength in collective effort in education
10:04 - Edtech's role in replacing or augmenting teachers, and the future of tech adoption
11:12 - Balancing dichotomies in education: knowledge vs skills, core vs extracurricular
11:56 - The concept of a "pick-and-mix" flexible education system
12:23 - How parent-controlled, holistic education models could revolutionize learning
13:06 - The importance of matching schooling environments to individual needs
14:03 - Rethinking traditional schooling and embracing tailored learning pathways
15:18 - Resources and updates: eduFuturist awards, upcoming book, and community initiatives
16:13 - The roadshow's impact and future plans for regional engagement
18:18 - Ben's latest book, "The Ideas Guy," and how it encourages lateral thinking
20:21 - Selecting influential thinkers and learning from diverse perspectives
22:29 - Ben's work beyond edtech in leadership and inclusion, including managing ADHD and neurodiversity
24:10 - The importance of self-understanding and support for neurodiverse learners and educators
26:54 - Framing ADHD as a superpower, tools for managing it, and the journey of self-acceptance
29:38 - Future directions for eduFuturist, community building, and ongoing projects
30:30 - The most inspiring projects and international visits like South Africa and Bucharest
32:47 - How to get involved with the eduFuturist awards and community
33:16 - Final thoughts: the importance of innovation and collaboration in shaping education's future
Resources and Links
The Ideas Guy Book: theideasguy.io/book
Pick n Mix book waitlist: https://www.crownhouse.co.uk/picknmix-education
All things Edufuturists: edufuturists.com
All things The Ideas Guy: theideasguy.io

Sky, Storytelling, AI and the Future of Youth Education with Nishy Lall
In this episode of The EdTech Podcast, Philippa is joined by Nishy Lall, a strategic senior leader with over 15 years' experience shaping large-scale social impact, youth engagement, digital equity and inclusion programmes across the UK, Europe and the US.
Nishy leads Sky's youth and social impact work, helping young people fulfil their potential through digital access, creativity, storytelling and real-world industry experiences. Through initiatives such as Sky Up Academy Studios, The Edit, and wider Sky youth programmes, she shares how Sky is opening doors into media, technology and creative careers for young people who may not otherwise see those pathways as available to them.
This conversation explores how immersive media experiences, AI, creative technology and industry partnerships can help young people build confidence, communication skills, digital literacy and a stronger sense of belonging. From creating news reports in professional-style studios to using tools such as Adobe Express for storytelling challenges, Nishy explains how Sky's programmes support both teachers and learners by connecting curriculum, creativity and future skills. 
At the heart of the episode is a powerful message: opportunities shape futures. When young people are given access to the right environments, tools and encouragement, they can begin to see themselves differently — not as a finished article, but as someone with agency, curiosity and potential.
 
Episode Summary
Nishy Lall from Sky joins The EdTech Podcast to discuss how Sky's youth programmes are helping young people build confidence, skills and aspirations through digital media, AI, creative technology and real-world industry experiences.
The conversation explores Sky Up Academy Studios, where young people step into studio environments, take on production roles, create their own news reports and experience the power of storytelling from script to screen. Nishy also shares the impact of The Edit, Sky's schools-based storytelling challenge developed with Adobe, which gives young people access to creative tools and the opportunity to explore themes such as climate change, diversity, mental health, wellbeing and media literacy.
Philippa and Nishy discuss the role of AI in education, the importance of ethical and responsible use, and why young people should be supported to see technology as an enabler rather than a replacement for human creativity. They also explore digital equity, inclusion, teacher support, lifelong learning, creative career pathways and the importance of helping every young person feel that they belong in future-facing industries.
Key Themes
Sky's youth and social impact work
Nishy shares how Sky's social impact programmes are designed to help young people fulfil their potential through digital access, creativity and future skills.
Sky Up Academy Studios
The episode explores how students visit immersive studio spaces, take on roles such as presenter, editor, director and camera operator, and create their own media content linked to curriculum themes.
Digital equity and access
Nishy describes digital equity as fairness — ensuring young people have access to tools, experiences and environments that allow them to express themselves and discover new possibilities.
AI, creativity and responsible use
The conversation explores how young people are already engaging with AI, why prompt literacy and critical thinking matter, and how AI can support ideation and storytelling when used responsibly.
Creative technology and career pathways
Sky's programmes help students understand the range of roles within media, broadcast, film, storytelling and creative technology, opening up pathways they may never have previously considered.
Supporting teachers and curriculum learning
The discussion highlights how media production can bring subjects such as history, geography, English, climate education and online safety to life in new and memorable ways.
Belonging, confidence and inclusion
Nishy shares examples of young people thriving in studio environments, including those who may struggle in traditional classroom settings, and explains why confidence and belonging are central to long-term impact.
 
Chapter Markers
00:00 Introduction to Nishy Lall and Sky's youth impact
02:30 Sky Up Academy Studios: a hands-on industry experience
03:18 Building teamwork, communication and digital literacy
05:07 AI in education and young people's digital confidence
06:20 Inspiring creativity and confidence in young learners
08:01 Inclusion, accessibility and opportunity for all
09:23 The fourth industrial revolution and youth readiness
10:53 Real-world careers: from studio experience to industry pathways
13:20 Using media to teach history and other curriculum subjects
15:21 Supporting diverse learners and students with additional needs
18:50 Earth Day, World Book Day and meaningful media projects
21:39 Media literacy and responsible content creation
22:55 AI, creativity, ethics and prompt literacy
25:26 The future of work and lifelong learning
28:34 Sky's role in digital innovation and education
35:01 Building confidence, aspiration and belonging
37:24 Partnerships, industry collaboration and authentic learning
42:01 Preparing educators for a changing digital world
44:14 Creating opportunities for all young people
45:35 Closing reflections and future outlook
46:13 Empowering youth through creative education
46:43 Why digital equity matters
47:08 Community, engagement and the role of EdTech
Guest Bio
Nishy Lall is a strategic senior leader with over 15 years' experience shaping large-scale social impact, youth engagement, digital equity and inclusion strategies across the UK, Europe and the US.
She brings extensive board and non-executive experience, deep governance expertise and a strong track record of financial leadership, including oversight of multi-million-pound budgets and complex programme portfolios. Nishy is recognised for influencing national conversations on skills, inclusion and media literacy, and for building high-value partnerships across industry, education and the technology sector.
She is an award-winning change-maker, recognised as Asian Women of the Year 2020 — Social & Humanitarian, Drum Awards Change Maker of the Year 2022, and We Make Change Top 100 Change Leader 2025.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nishy-lall-61b91415/ 
Resources and Links
Sky Up – The Edit: https://www.skyup.sky/the-edit
Sky Up Academy Studios: https://www.skyup.sky/academy-studios
Access All Arts: https://accessallarts.skyarts.uk/
Sky Group on X: https://x.com/SkyGroup
Adobe Creative Cloud: https://www.adobe.com/creativecloud.html

#325 Unlocking the Power of Classroom Cloud: The Ultimate EdTech Solution for Schools
 
Most schools are struggling to keep students safe, engaged, and focused — but what if the right tech could change that? classroom.cloud is transforming classrooms worldwide with a platform that streamlines management, boosts safeguarding, and empowers teachers like never before. In this episode, educators and IT leaders reveal how this innovative tool is saving time, enhancing safety, and boosting student accountability, all while reducing paper waste and administrative overload.
Discover how classroom.cloud's rapid deployment process gets lessons started in just three clicks, eliminating tedious log-ins and setup delays. We break down its powerful safeguarding features, including real-time keyword detection in multiple languages, AI-driven risk analysis, and evidence documentation with screenshots and recordings. Learn how these safety tools help teachers monitor and protect neurodiverse students, manage offline content, and respond swiftly to online risks—all seamlessly integrated into existing school ecosystems.
You'll hear insights from educators across the globe sharing practical tips: how the platform simplifies onboarding, enhances remote and hybrid learning, and improves overall classroom flow. Topics include its user-friendly interface, robust safeguarding protocols, compatibility with major platforms like Google and Office 365, and its ability to generate detailed reports for leadership and safeguarding teams. Plus, explore future opportunities—like integrating AI feedback loops, developing real-time student-teacher interactions, and enhancing features for digital responsibility and student transparency.
Why is it crucial to have a tool that adapts to diverse school environments, from managing BYOD policies to safeguarding across multiple languages? Because every minute saved and every risk mitigated means more focus on what truly matters—quality teaching and safe, inclusive learning. Schools that don't leverage such platforms risk falling behind in safety, efficiency, and engagement.
This episode is perfect for school leaders, teachers, and IT professionals eager to cut workload, bolster safeguarding, and create dynamic, tech-powered classrooms. Whether you're considering your first edtech investment or seeking to upgrade your existing systems, the insights shared here will help you make an informed, impactful decision. Join us to explore how classroom.cloud is shaping the future of education—streamlined, safe, and ready for tomorrow's learners.
Resources & Links:
Classroom Cloud Official Website
Google Workspace for Education
Microsoft Education Tools
NetSupport DNA
ISTE Standards for Education Technology 
Connect with the Experts:
Al Kingsley
Jerome Nogues
Allison Harridge
Chrish Dias
Aarifa Gora
Amjad Suhail Aziz
Gnei Shahira Ousman

Episode Overview
In this episode of The EdTech Podcast, we bring together three educators who have moved beyond using AI—to actively creating with it. From building bespoke tools and secure large language models to designing simple, classroom-ready solutions, this conversation explores what it means to be an educator–creator in an AI-driven world.
Chris Loveday shares how his college has developed over 20 AI-powered agents to support both operational efficiency and student experience, including a fully safeguarded internal large language model designed with education-specific guardrails. His work highlights critical themes of digital equity, safeguarding, and the importance of keeping humans firmly in the loop.
Aaron Patching brings a practical, classroom-level perspective—demonstrating how teachers can use tools like Canva and low-code platforms to solve everyday challenges. From interactive recall quizzes to real-time navigation tools for parents' evenings, he shows how small, purposeful innovations can have a big impact on workload and engagement.
Dan Comber explores how AI can transform static school resources into dynamic, interactive experiences. From chatbot-powered policy access to rethinking how students and parents engage with key information, his work focuses on accessibility, communication, and embedding AI into school culture—not just as a tool, but as part of how systems operate.
Across the conversation, a shared message emerges: successful AI integration in education is not about the technology itself, but about solving real problems, building staff confidence, and maintaining a strong ethical and human-centred approach. The episode also tackles key challenges, including staff training, sustainability, data privacy, and the need for clear governance.
Whether you're just starting out or already experimenting, this episode offers practical insights, honest reflections, and a powerful reminder—AI in education isn't something happening to us, it's something we can actively shape.
Chris Loveday: linkedin.com/in/chris-loveday-5b712622b/ 
Aaron Patching: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-patching/
Dan Comber: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-comber-teacher/ 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to AI in Education
02:50 Creating Bespoke AI Solutions
05:48 Student-Centric AI Tools
08:46 Empowering Educators with AI
11:24 Innovative Approaches to Teaching
14:20 Bridging the Gap with AI
14:49 Overcoming Resistance to AI
16:54 Interactive Learning with AI
20:03 The Future of AI in Education
25:51 Building Effective Data Systems in Education
27:02 Exploring AI's Role in Education
29:26 Engaging Staff with AI Technology
31:49 Implementing AI in the Classroom
33:13 Educating Students on AI Literacy
35:31 The Importance of Continuous Training
37:46 Practical Tools for Teachers
41:42 Sustainability and AI in Education
45:36 Advice for Educators Embracing AI
52:22 NEWCHAPTER
 
Resources
 
AI and Education Steering Panel - https://aieducation.org
Canva - https://www.canva.com
Claude AI - https://www.anthropic.com
ChatGPT - https://chat.openai.com
Google AI Tools - https://ai.google/