The Edtech Podcast

Hugh Viney, Founder and CEO of Minerva Virtual Academy, discusses revolutionizing online education. He outlines how the academy, born from lockdown challenges, prioritizes flexibility and community. Hugh highlights the unique needs of students thriving in his model, including those with mental health challenges and elite athletes. The conversation dives into Minerva's innovative curriculum, teacher retention strategies through a supportive culture, and plans for expansion in the Middle East. Ultimately, it’s an inspiring look at how virtual learning can foster real connections.

In this conversation, Abdul Chohan, VP of Learning at Showbie and former principal with global expertise, shares transformative insights from India’s classrooms. He discusses the shift from traditional, exam-driven methods to innovative, learner-centered approaches. Notably, schools are now blending CBSE, IGCSE, and IB curricula. Abdul highlights how teachers embrace professional growth and how rural students are teaching digital skills at home, showcasing India’s fearless, resourceful educational culture positioned to lead global innovation.

This episode features Sidney Sutton, Digital Learning Lead at Oberoi International School, Mumbai, in conversation with Philippa Wraithmell. Together, they discuss the transformation of education and EdTech across India over the past decade. Sidney reflects on the country's deep cultural respect for education, the growth of collaborative teaching communities, and the infrastructure foundations required to make technology integration sustainable. He outlines India's emerging role in AI and homegrown EdTech innovation, as well as how schools are approaching ethical AI, digital citizenship, and responsible adoption of new technologies. The conversation highlights a central theme: how educators can balance innovation with intention, keeping learning, relationships, and human connection at the core of technology-driven education.

This episode features Hema Mandanna, history teacher and administrator at Mallya Aditi International School, Bangalore, in conversation with host Philippa Wraithmell. Hema reflects on her 27-year teaching journey and the evolution of education technology in India's tech capital. The discussion covers key themes of teacher autonomy, professional development, and the integration of iPads and accessibility tools that transformed learning for students with diverse needs. Hema recounts how early adoption of EdTech positioned her school to handle challenges such as remote learning and inclusivity, ensuring technology serves pedagogy rather than the other way around. The episode also examines the school's proactive engagement with AI in education, ongoing teacher training, and how a culture of openness and collaboration fosters confident, critical thinkers. Hema's story stands as a testament to how innovation and equity can coexist when educators lead with trust, creativity, and compassion.

In this special episode, Philippa Wraithmell is joined by the Digital Futures Group — Gemma Williams, Daren White, Emma Darcy, Gary Henderson, James Garnett, Jonny Wathen (and a shoutout to Abid Patel!) — a collective of leading UK and European educators and edtech voices redefining what meaningful digital transformation looks like. Together, they ask the big questions: Are we truly innovating, or just dressing up old systems in new tech? Do frameworks from the DfE, EU, and OECD genuinely help schools, or add to the noise? Is EdTech narrowing or widening the equity gap? And what must we unlearn if we're serious about futureproofing education? Expect bold honesty, shared insight, and a challenge to every assumption about what progress in education really means.

Welcome back to a new season of The EdTech Podcast! Our founder, Sophie Bailey, is thrilled to be back, sharing what she's been up to over the past few years and introducing our brand-new host, Philippa Wraithmell.

In this discussion, Jim Knight, chair of EACT and Century Tech, and Rob Robson, ASCL Trust Leadership Consultant, delve into the rapid integration of AI in education. They emphasize the need for a balanced approach—learning fast while acting thoughtfully. Key topics include the potential of personalized learning, automated grading, and the risks of data biases and ethical concerns. They advocate for comprehensive AI literacy among educators and highlight the importance of ensuring equitable access to these technologies to avoid increasing inequalities.

Harvey Trump, an Educational Consultant based in Egypt, shares valuable insights on AI integration in schools, highlighting its challenges and potential. Avani Higgins, Director of School Improvement, discusses strategies to enhance teaching efficiency amid digital inequalities. Together, they explore the importance of critical thinking and digital literacy skills, caution against misuse of AI, and advocate for robust training for educators. The conversation emphasizes a balanced approach to adopting technology, ensuring it enhances learning while safeguarding students.

In a thoughtful discussion, Adam Webster, Deputy Head at Caterham School and CEO of Sphinx AI, Scott Hayden, Head of Teaching at Basingstoke College of Technology, and Chris Goodall, Head of Digital Education at Bourne Education Trust, explore the integration of AI in UK schools. They tackle the balance between AI benefits and risks, the need for comprehensive educator training, and the evolving assessment methods. Emphasizing strong leadership, they discuss strategies for fostering an inclusive environment and maintaining the human touch in learning.

Emma Darcy, Director of Technology for Learning at Denbigh High School, and Sarah Buist, Head of Digital Strategy at Royal Grammar School Newcastle, delve into the complex role of AI in education. They discuss the varied adoption of AI in UK schools and the need for proactive strategies to tackle its risks, including biases and safeguarding concerns. The importance of comprehensive training for teachers and leaders is emphasized to ensure effective integration. They also explore real classroom experiences with AI, highlighting the challenges for different age groups.