Best Matt Jessop Podcasts (2025)

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Edufuturists #313 The System is Failing Our Kids with Matt Jessop 52:12

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19d ago52:12

52:12

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 faci…

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Edufuturists #315 Dare to Discover with Hilary Leevers & Maddie Dinwoodies 49:28

5d ago49:28

49:28

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 ed…

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Season 2, Episode 4 - The multifaceted role of football in society with Keiran Maguire 41:02

9d ago41:02

41:02

In this conversation, Matt Jessop and Al Kingsley are joined by Kieran Maguire, Lecturer in football finance at University of Liverpool, author of ‘The Price of Football’ and podcast host of ‘The Price of Football’ with comedian Kevin Day and BBC money presenter Guy Kilty. They discuss the multifaceted role of football in society, particularly its …

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Edufuturists #314 Words Really Matter with Sofia Fenichell 45:36

12d ago45:36

45:36

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 traditi…

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Season 2, Episode 3 - Unlocking Estonia's E-Residency Success, Skills & Education with Liina Vahtras 26:04

20d ago26:04

26:04

In this conversation, Liina Vahtras, the managing director of Estonia's e-residency program, discusses the evolution and impact of the program on entrepreneurship and the digital economy in Estonia with Al Kingsley and Matt Jessop. She highlights the innovations being implemented to streamline the application process, the unique digital ecosystem o…

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Edufuturists #312 Because of You, This Is Me with Jaz Ampaw-Farr 47:54

26d ago47:54

47:54

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 discus…

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Season 2, Episode 2 - Navigating AI Safely: Protecting Our Children with Tara Steele 32:50

27d ago32:50

32:50

In this conversation, Al Kingsley, Matt Jessop and Tara Steele discuss the urgent need for safeguards in the use of AI by children. They explore the dangers of AI companions, the role of AI in education, and the importance of regulation and governance. The conversation emphasises the necessity of educating children about AI, the risks of emerging t…

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Edufuturists #311 The Call for Meaningful Change with the Youth Shadow Panel 54:05

1M ago54:05

54:05

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by Tasnuva and Ben representing the Youth Shadow Panel to discuss their part in the Shadow Curriculum & Assessment Review. This is the student voice to mirror the UK government's Curriculum & Assessment Review (CAR) led by Professor Becky Francis.Ben & Tasnuva join us as two members of a wider youth pan…

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Season 2, Episode 1- Empowering Education: The Role of Character and Mindset with Baasit Siddiqui 42:42

1M ago42:42

42:42

In this engaging conversation, Baasit Siddiqui discusses with hosts of the "Joining the Dots Podcast" Matt Jessop and Al Kingsley about his extensive experience in education and the importance of character education, mindset, and the seven Cs. He emphasises the need for project-based learning and collaboration between schools and businesses to bett…

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Edufuturists #310 The Moral Imperative with Gwyn ap Harri 48:57

1M ago48:57

48:57

In this episode of the podcast, we chat with the wonderful Gwyn ap Harri, the CEO of XP Trust, to explore innovative educational practices and the importance of character building in schools. One of Gwyn's schools, XP Gateshead won Edufuturists Secondary School of the Year 2025. Gwyn discusses the concept of 'crew' as a foundational element of XP T…

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Edufuturists #309 Listen Up To What Students Are Saying with Kathryn McColl and Brogan Pierce (Hark) 56:53

2M ago56:53

56:53

In this episode of the Edufuturists podcast, we talk to Kathryn McColl and Brogan Pierce from Hark about their Listen Up Report, which uncovers why confidence drops during key school transitions, who’s most affected, and what educators and employers can do to close the gap. Nearly 1 in 3 young people in the UK lack confidence - a hidden barrier to …

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Edufuturists #308 The Big Review Part 10 41:24

2M ago41:24

41:24

In this episode, hosts Steve Hope and Ben Whitaker look into the evolving landscape of education. We discuss the challenges and opportunities in creating inclusive and diverse learning environments, the role of AI in education, and the importance of community engagement. The conversation also touches on the need for a curriculum that adapts to the …

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Edufuturists #307 Why AI Literacy is More Than Promptcraft with Jeremy Samways 55:00

2M ago55:00

55:00

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by Jeremy Samways, who discusses his journey from marketing to education, focusing on the importance of AI literacy for students. Jeremy is the founder and a trustee of Your Tomorrow, an innovative charity dedicated to bridging the gap between education and the rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligen…

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Edufuturists #306 Why School Doesn't Work for Every Child with Matt Bromley 53:12

2M ago53:12

53:12

In this episode of the podcast, we are delighted to welcome back Matt Bromley, an educational author and advisor, to discuss his latest book, 'Why School Doesn't Work for Every Child.' Matt first joined us in February 2024 with Andy Griffith, the co-author of another, similar book, The Working Classroom, and a friend of Ben's from his formative tea…

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Edufuturists #305 More Than Flags & Rainbows with Ian Timbrell 41:49

3M ago41:49

41:49

In this episode of the podcast, we are super pleased to be able have another thought-provoking conversation, this time with Ian Timbrell, another Crown House Publishing author. Ian has written a brilliant book, More Than Flags and Rainbows, so we sit down to chat about the future of education, focusing on the importance of true inclusion, cultural …

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Edufuturists #304 Attendance ≠ Engagement with Professor Andy Hargreaves 50:04

3M ago50:04

50:04

In this episode of the Edufuturists podcast, we are joined by Ben's fellow Accringtonian, Professor Andy Hargreaves to discuss the complexities of education, focusing on student engagement, the impact of teachers, and the importance of identity and belonging in the learning process. Andy shares his personal journey from Accrington to Canada, highli…

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Edufuturists #303 - Make It Real with Leonie Briggs 34:49

3M ago34:49

34:49

In this episode of the podcast, we welcome another Crown House Publishing author, Leonie Briggs, the director of Amaze Lab, to discuss the future of education, particularly in the realms of STEM and STEAM. Leonie shares her journey from veterinary practice to education, her passion for creating engaging learning experiences, and her new book, 'Make…

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Edufuturists #302 - Third Space Learning with Tom Hooper 50:48

3M ago50:48

50:48

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by Tom Hooper, founder of Third Space Learning, to discuss the evolution of tutoring from human-led to AI-driven models. Tom shares insights on the effectiveness of one-to-one tutoring, the importance of equitable access to education, and the role of teachers in integrating AI into learning environments…

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Edufuturists #301 This Much I Know About with John Tomsett 56:45

3M ago56:45

56:45

In this episode of the podcast, we welcome John Tomsett, an experienced educator and author. John shares his journey from head teacher to educational consultant, emphasising the importance of understanding teaching through a global lens. The conversation delves into the significance of checking for understanding in the classroom, the challenges of …

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Episode 18 with Richard O'Neil 46:54

4M ago46:54

46:54

Joining the Dots Podcast with Richard O’Neill MBE on Storytelling, Skills & Resilience Al Kingsley and Matt Jessop interview Richard O’Neill MBE – Author, master storyteller, founder of Lumberjunkers, visiting professor at Durham, campaigner for men’s health. 🔑 Episode Highlights: Storytelling as the heart of communication: Richard shares how his R…

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Edufuturists #300 This is Sparta! Trends V3 58:18

4M ago58:18

58:18

In this milestone 300th episode of the podcast, we reflect on the journey, the evolution of education, and the importance of community. We discuss the key trends in education that we shared at Uprising25, the need for a shift in assessment methods, and the concept of agency with guardrails to foster independent thinking in students. The conversatio…

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Edufuturists #299 Better Together with Emma Darcy 58:57

4M ago58:57

58:57

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by the wonderful Emma Darcy, a prominent figure in EdTech, discussing her journey, the importance of community and networking, and the transformative role of AI in education. Emma shares insights on the Apps for Good initiative, emphasising the need for schools to adapt to the changing landscape of tech…

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Episode 17 with Bianca Farthing 39:39

4M ago39:39

39:39

🎙️ Joining the Dots: Challenging the Rhetoric of AI in Education with Bianca Farthing In this thought-provoking episode of Joining the Dots, Al and Matt are joined by Bianca, founder of AI Edify, history teacher, and digital leader — to explore how education can rise above the hype of AI and technology to truly serve learners. Together, they dive i…

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Episode #298 Building AI Toolkits with Christian Turton 50:38

4M ago50:38

50:38

In this episode of the podcast, we welcome Christian Turton, the EdTech Lead at Chiltern Learning Trust. We discuss the evolving role of technology in education, particularly the integration of AI. Christian shares insights on the Department for Education's recent guidance on Generative AI in schools, emphasising the importance of safe and effectiv…

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Edufuturists #297 Open Education with Matt Bowman 54:15

4M ago54:15

54:15

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by Matt Bowman, founder of OpenEd, to discuss the evolution of education and the importance of personalised learning. We explore how traditional education systems are failing to meet the needs of diverse learners and the role of technology, particularly AI, in shaping the future of education. Matt talks…

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Edufuturists #296 Finding Ways with Meagan Alfano 53:14

5M ago53:14

53:14

In this episode of the Edufuturists podcast, we chat with the wonderful Meagan Alfano all the way from Edmonton, Canada, who shares her insights on the importance of STEM education, the role of fun and creativity in learning, and innovative teaching practices such as design thinking and the use of micro:bit technology. Meagan discusses her journey …

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Edufuturists #295 Failure & Experience with Louise Jones 49:59

5M ago49:59

49:59

In this episode of the podcast, we welcome back Louise Jones, the Chief Community Officer at ThingLink. We discuss her journey in education technology, the significance of multi-modal learning, and the shift from measuring attendance to engagement in educational settings. Louise talks passionately about the importance of accessibility and compassio…

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Episode 16 with Carla Aerts 46:20

5M ago46:20

46:20

In this thought-provoking episode of Joining the Dots, Al Kingsley and Matt Jessop are joined by global education innovator and learner-centred strategist Carla Aerts. With decades of experience in EdTech, AI, and digital learning, Carla brings a passionate, challenging, and compassionate lens to the big question: what is education really for? 🧠 Fr…

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Edufuturists #294 Becoming Better Humans with Richard Culatta 48:18

5M ago48:18

48:18

In this episode of the podcast, we have the awesome privilege of being joined by none other than Richard Culatta, CEO of ISTE and former White House Education Adviser. We discuss the future of education and the role of technology in enhancing learning experiences. The conversation explores the importance of thoughtful tech integration (or not integ…

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Episode 15 with Naomi Timperley 33:06

5M ago33:06

33:06

🎙️ Joining the Dots – Episode: Bridging Business, Education & Innovation with Naomi Timperley Hosts: Al Kingsley & Matt Jessop | Guest: Naomi Timperley In this energising episode, Al and Matt are joined by powerhouse Naomi Timperley—innovation consultant, tech community builder, and passionate advocate for youth and entrepreneurship. Naomi shares h…

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Edufuturists #293 The Big Review Part 9 37:21

5M ago37:21

37:21

In this episode of the podcast, we review six recent episodes, discussing key themes in education, including the future of EdTech, the importance of community, the role of AI, and the need for change in educational leadership. We reflect on super insightful conversations with various guests, emphasising the need for agency, choice, and responsible …

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Edufuturists #292 Learning as Conversation with Professor Mike Sharples 55:32

6M ago55:32

55:32

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by Professor Mike Sharples, an expert in educational technology, to discuss the evolving landscape of education, particularly in relation to AI and online learning. Mike is Emeritus Professor of Educational Technology at The Open University. We explore the history and impact of the Open University, the …

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Episode 14 with Caroline Allams 47:30

6M ago47:30

47:30

In this lively and thoughtful episode, Al Kingsley and Matt Jessop are joined by educator and co-founder of Natterhub, Caroline Allams. Together, they dive into the evolving challenges and opportunities in education, especially around digital safety, parental engagement, and the impact of technology on both learning and wellbeing. Caroline shares h…

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Edufuturists #291 Outstanding with Steve Baker 53:33

6M ago53:33

53:33

In this episode of the podcast, it is just Steve as Ben is away on his jetsetting adventures! But it's not just one Steve; we get a double Steve whammy as he is joined by Steve Baker, a seasoned educator and author. Steve lives in Anglesey, North Wales with his wife Sian. After a long career in education, from which he is semi-retired, he wrote his…

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Episode 13 with Hugh Viney 43:25

6M ago43:25

43:25

In this episode, Matt Jessop and Al Kingsley sit down with Hugh Viney, founder and CEO of Minerva’s Virtual Academy (MVA) — one of the UK’s fastest-growing online schools. From launching with just four students in 2021 to educating over 1,100 full-time learners globally, Hugh shares MVA’s unique hybrid model blending 60% asynchronous and 40% synchr…

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Edufuturists #290 Asking the Awkward Questions with Al Kingsley 57:22

6M ago57:22

57:22

In this episode of the podcast, we welcome back for the FOURTH time, the wonderful, majestic, Al Kingsley MBE, a prominent figure in the EdTech space. Alongside Al's personal challenges, we discuss his multifaceted roles in education, and the importance of supporting startups in the EdTech ecosystem. The conversation delves into the slow evolution …

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Episode 12 with Paul Glossop 22:39

6M ago22:39

22:39

In this episode of Joining the Dots, Al Kingsley and Matt Jessop sit down with Paul Glossop from the University of Derby to explore the growing cracks in our education system, especially around attendance, SEND provision, and the rigidity of traditional pathways. From rising parental disillusionment to the potential of online schools, they tackle b…

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Edufuturists #289 Responsible AI with Jamie Smith 52:38

6M ago52:38

52:38

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined again by Dr Jamie Smith, Executive Chairman at C-Learning and author of the new book The Responsible AI Revolution. Jamie joins us to discuss the intersection of AI and education, emphasising the need for a responsible approach to AI implementation. Jamie introduces his book, which addresses the potenti…

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Episode 11 with Professor Mick Waters 44:04

7M ago44:04

44:04

Rethinking the Purpose of Education In this episode of the Joining the Dots podcast, Al Kingsley and Matt Jessop sit down with the legendary Professor Mick Waters—renowned curriculum expert and co-author of About Our Schools—to ask the big questions shaping education today. 💡 What is the true purpose of schooling in the 21st century? 📉 Are PISA ran…

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Edufuturists #288 The Connected Leader with Lucy & Jonathan Coy 56:28

7M ago56:28

56:28

In this episode of the podcast, we are delighted to be joined by Lucy and Jonathan Coy, experienced educators and founders of the popular online community, HeadteacherChat. They discuss their journey in education, the challenges faced by school leaders, and the importance of building a supportive community. The conversation highlights the need for …

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Episode 10 with Dr Nick Jackson 41:00

7M ago41:00

41:00

In this thought-provoking episode of the "Joining the Dots" podcast, hosts Matt Jessop and Al Kingsley chat with Dr. Nick Jackson, AI expert and co-author of "The Next Words: AI and Teachers." Diving into the dynamic intersection of artificial intelligence and education, Nick challenges us to move beyond the superficial integration of AI, urging ed…

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Edufuturists #287 The Pick 'n' Mix Marketplace with Ben Somers 1:05:07

7M ago1:05:07

1:05:07

In this episode of the podcast, we chat with Benjamin Somers, the founder of Recess, a platform designed to revolutionise education by putting kids in control of their learning. They discuss the vision behind Recess, its marketplace for learning, and the importance of safety and moderation in online education. Benjamin shares his personal journey a…

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Edufuturists #286 The Big Review Part 8 48:03

7M ago48:03

48:03

In this episode of the podcast, we reflect on our recent experiences and interviews, discussing the evolving landscape of education. We explore themes of hope for the future of education, the importance of inclusion and equity, and the role of technology in bridging gaps. The conversation emphasises the need for a collective vision and the importan…

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Episode 9 with Jonny Clark 45:36

7M ago45:36

45:36

In this lively episode, hosts Al Kingsley and Matt Jessop sit down with Jonny Clark—angel investor, CEO of the not-for-profit venture firm Capital Enterprise, and a driving force across multiple UK startup scenes. Jonny shares candid views on why London-based companies often scale faster than those in the north, pointing to policy, infrastructure, …

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Edufuturists #285 The Digital Ecosystem with Philippa Wraithmell 53:52

7M ago53:52

53:52

In this episode, we are joined by Philippa Wraithmell to discuss the transformative role of technology in education through Philippa's company, Edruption. We explore her journey from teaching to leading educational change, emphasising the importance of understanding the unique needs of each school. The conversation delves into the four pillars of d…

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Edufuturists #284 Empowering Students Through Technology with Tara Jones 59:34

8M ago59:34

59:34

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by the lovely Tara Jones from Clever to discuss the evolving landscape of education technology. We explore the importance of cybersecurity, the disparities in student experiences with technology, and the need for personalised learning. The conversation emphasises the significance of creating a supportiv…

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Episode 8 With Miles Berry 41:41

8M ago41:41

41:41

The Future of Tech in Education with Miles Berry In this thought-provoking episode, Matt Jessop and Al Kingsley sit down with Miles Berry, Professor of Computing Education at the University of Roehampton and a leading voice in education, computing, and teacher training. They dive into the evolving role of technology in schools, questioning whether …

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Edufuturists #283 Addressing the Global Teacher Crisis with Charlie Radman 46:30

8M ago46:30

46:30

In this episode of the podcast, we chat with Charlie Radman, the Global Head of Education at HP. We discuss the critical role of technology in education, the importance of partnerships, and the pressing global teacher crisis. Charlie shares insights on HP's commitment to sustainability and digital equity, emphasising the need for critical thinking …

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Edufuturists #282 Equity Centred Design with SL Rao 59:21

8M ago59:21

59:21

In this episode of the podcast, we engage with SL Rao, a design consultant from Optimistic Design. They explore the concept of equity-centred design, emphasising the importance of community involvement in the design process. SL shares their journey from engineering to design, highlighting the need for a more inclusive approach in technology and edu…

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Edufuturists #281 Beyond the Classroom - Our Interviews from BETT Day 2 1:32:33

8M ago1:32:33

1:32:33

In this episode, we have a collection of the interviews from across Day 2 of BETT 2025. There is an incredible amount of content here from our conversations, including discussions around sustainability, collaboration, mental health & wellbeing, creativity and gamification, as well as hopes for the future of education. And it's double Ben Whitaker a…