Edufuturists #332 Why Learning Needs to be Messy with Nici Foote

In this episode of the Edufuturists podcast, we are joined by Dr Robin Harwick, educator, research scientist and founder of the Pearl Remote Democratic High School in central Mexico. Robin shares her journey into education, her frustration with the long gap between research and classroom practice, and why she felt compelled to build a school that puts democracy, inclusion and student agency at its core.The conversation explores what it really means to create a democratic school, from co-creating curriculum with students to building classrooms where voice, choice and critical thinking are non-negotiable. Robin argues that too much of mainstream education is still built around control, compliance and conformity, rather than helping young people become informed, engaged and competent citizens.We also discuss why student voice is so often reduced to tokenism, how schools can move beyond rigid planning, and why educators need to relearn how to listen. The episode is a powerful challenge to inherited assumptions about schooling and a reminder that if education is meant to prepare young people for democracy, it cannot continue to be run like an authoritarian system.Chapters00:00 Introduction And Welcome01:24 Robin Harwick’s Background And Route Into Education05:16 Introducing The Pearl Remote Democratic High School05:43 The Origins Of The Pearl And Art Pearl’s Influence07:53 Democracy, Inclusion And Informed Citizenship08:39 Why This Work Matters In The World Today11:37 Civic Participation, Responsibility And Student Voice15:25 What A Democratic School Looks Like In Practice17:41 Co-Creating Curriculum And Following Student Curiosity22:03 Relearning How To Teach In A Democratic Model25:17 Supporting Teachers To Let Go Of Control29:31 Why Most Schools Still Prioritise Compliance31:44 Moving Beyond Tokenistic Student Voice37:20 Autism, Masking And Resisting Unjust Systems39:21 Quickfire QuestionsFind out more about the Pearl Remote Democratic High School Robin also references The Democratic ClassroomThanks 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 at: edufuturists.com/uprising26

In this episode of the Edufuturists podcast, we are joined by Dr Emily Musil from the Milken Institute to explore how education, philanthropy and technological change are colliding in powerful ways. Emily shares her journey through higher education, EdTech and global learning projects, before unpacking her current work helping philanthropists and institutions invest in the future of education.The conversation explores why AI literacy and computational thinking now need to be seen as part of the core learning experience, not as optional extras or specialist subjects. We discuss the growing pressure on higher education to rethink old models, the importance of lifelong learning, and the role of philanthropy in funding experimentation, innovation and system change.Emily also reflects on the balance between high tech and human-centred learning, arguing that the future of education should combine personalised digital support with collaboration, empathy and real-world problem solving. It is a conversation about imagination, urgency and the need to build learning systems that are more flexible, more equitable and more fit for the world ahead.Chapters00:00 Introduction02:15 Emily Musil’s background in Education and EdTech05:09 The Milken Institute and Strategic pPhilanthropy07:33 Global Trends, Regional Priorities and Systems Thinking10:11 AI Disruption and the Need for Future-focused Thinking14:51 Why AI Literacy Must Become a Core Skill16:01 Personalised Learning and What Schools Can Do Differently19:26 Higher Education, Business Models and Resistance to Change24:15 New University Models and Experimental Approaches26:46 Lifelong Learning and Education as a Continuum30:08 How Philanthropy can Catalyse Change in Education35:47 Computational Thinking, AI+ and Human-Centred Learning40:11 Competition, Global Opportunity and Prize-based Innovation45:22 Quickfire QuestionsFind out more about Emily hereDownload the Milken Institute's latest AI ReportHear about Milken's latest partnershop with Drew UniversityThanks 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: https://www.twitter.com/edufuturistsFollow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/edufuturists/Join the WhatsApp Community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/IWXj4PvbvvI5frLGVUj6ih?mode=ems_copy_h_cCheck out all about Edufuturists at https://www.edufuturists.comWant 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 have mashed together all of our interviews from Bett 2026. We aren't going to lie...putting this together has been a nightmare and we almost didn't put it out. We lost footage, some of the audio tracks haven't transcribed and it's not really our best work.But, we thought it's important we don't always have to be polished AND the audio content here with some incredible folks is just magical. Let's focus on that eh?! Don't judge; be kind!Chapters 00:00 Andrew Sliwinski, Lego14:21 Gavan Vetesse-Wilson, Salamander Soft31:38 John Roberts, Oak National Academy41:07 Taryn Sullivan, Google01:16:38 Mark Hadley, Blackout Technologies01:19:58 Simon Blower, Pobble01:24:41 Jon Neale, Kahoot01:39:14 Polly Morgan, IDEA.org01:49:40 James Weatherill, Arbor01:58:49 Aanya Niaz, AWS02:14:45 Alison Clark-Wilson, UCL02:27:00 Bett Awards02:33:40 Christian Turton02:36:53 Louisa & Yash, BeyondThanks 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

In this episode of the podcast, we get into a deep conversation with Dr. Iain MacRitchie about the transformative power of mentoring in education. We discuss the importance of building relationships, the role of failure in learning, and the need for a supportive education system that prioritises human connection. Iain shares his journey from business to social impact, emphasising the significance of trusted adults in the lives of young people. The conversation also explores the integration of technology in mentoring and the potential for community support systems to enhance educational outcomes. Ultimately, the episode highlights the necessity of hope and the collective effort required to uplift young individuals in their educational journeys.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Community Engagement03:02 Dr. Iain MacRitchie's Journey06:16 Bridging Business and Education08:52 The Importance of Mentoring12:04 Learning from Failure14:45 The Role of Relationships in Education17:44 Building a Trusted Adult Model20:34 Transformational Outcomes for Young People23:25 The Framework of MCR Mentoring26:26 Creating a Village for Support29:05 Scaling the Impact of Mentoring30:06 The Power of Mentorship and Community Engagement31:26 Innovative Approaches to Mentoring with Technology33:43 Balancing AI and Human Intelligence in Education35:49 Creating Safe Spaces for Young People37:56 Addressing the Impact of Social Media on Youth42:48 Revitalising Community Spaces for Learning49:20 Sustainability in Mentoring ProgrammesFind out more about MCR Pathways and KeytuAnd if you're quick, sign up for a webinar with Ben & Iain on 10th March: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 touchGet your tickets for Edufuturists Uprising 2026

In this episode of the podcast, we chat with our friend from over the short pond in Ireland, Rita Bateson, an expert in AI and education and founder of Eblana Learning. We explore Rita's journey in the educational landscape, the impact of AI on teaching and learning, and the importance of balancing AI literacy with human-centred approaches. The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, the need for critical thinking, and the evolving purpose of education in a rapidly changing world. Rita shares insights from her work at Eblana Learning and emphasises the importance of thoughtful implementation of AI in schools, advocating for a future where education is enriched by technology without losing its human touch.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Context Setting01:06 Rita's Journey in Education05:16 The Impact of AI on Education09:14 Navigating Educational Trends and Data13:43 The Role of AI in Teaching and Learning17:51 Eblana Learning's Mission and Vision20:59 Balancing AI Literacy and Human-Centred Learning24:35 Critical Thinking and AI in Education28:30 Conflict Resolution and Learning30:25 Agentic AI: Future Implications34:50 Rethinking Education's Purpose41:03 Final Thoughts and ReflectionsFind out more about EblanaCheck out the Sustainable AI Course Rita mentionedThanks 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

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by the brilliant Nici Foote to discuss the importance of joy in learning, the challenges faced by neurodiverse students, and the need for personalised education. Nici shares her journey in education, emphasising the significance of creating engaging and inclusive learning environments. The conversation explores the role of play, the messiness of learning, and the impact of time constraints on effective teaching. We also dig into Universal Design for Learning (UDL) as a framework for meeting diverse student needs and the importance of collaborative planning among educators.Chapters00:00 Introductions01:14 Nici's Journey in Education03:50 Navigating Barriers in Education06:36 Bringing Joy into Learning11:13 The Importance of Messy Learning15:06 Personalising Education for Every Student23:12 Cultural Learning Experiences25:34 Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Explained30:26 The Importance of Engagement in Learning37:05 Barriers to Implementing UDL40:15 Rethinking Time in Education43:11 The Myth of Limiting AbilitiesFind out more about Nici's amazing work at unbarrier.me and connect with her on LinkedInThanks 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

In this special episode celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Edufuturists podcast, we reflect on a decade of conversations, insights, and growth in the field of education. We discuss the evolution of the podcast, the importance of community, and the future of learning, emphasising the need for personalised and inclusive education. The episode also reviews recent episodes, highlighting key takeaways and the ongoing journey of innovation in education. Chapters00:00 Celebrating a Decade of Edufuturists09:58 Reflections on Recent Episodes and Key Insights19:05 Exploring the Future of Education and Learning28:21 The Importance of Community and CollaborationThanks 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 Get your tickets for Edufuturists Uprising 2026

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 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