Our first #FinnemoreFireside of the academic year is with Al Kingsley, Group CEO of NetSupport Ltd but also very well known in the edtech sector as a Mentor, Multi Academy Trust Chair, DfE Advisory Board, ISC Top 10 Global Edrupter, Author, Speaker, DBT Export Champion, 23 Edufuturist and BESA EdTech Chair. Phew, what a list!

In this insightful interview, Al brings his extensive experience and passion for edtech to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing schools today. From the need for more flexible, personalised learning models to the crucial role of technology in education, Al offers thought-provoking ideas on how we can better support our students and educators.

In it, we discuss, amongst other things:

• Schools’ Purpose and Challenges: Al highlights the evolving role of schools, which now extends beyond education to include child care and social care, creating increased pressure on educators.
• Future of Education: education needs a more flexible and personalised approach, incorporating digital tools while still valuing human interaction and nurturing skills like critical thinking and creativity.
• Systemic Issues: we discuss government policy, noting that short-term measures and underfunding prevent meaningful educational reform. A long-term vision is essential, but often sidelined due to political cycles.
• Edtech’s Role: we talk about a balanced use of technology in schools, emphasising that while tech can enhance learning, it should not replace the human elements of education that develop well-rounded individuals.
• Personalised Learning: the idea of more tailored learning experiences, possibly through blended or hybrid models, to better engage students and cater to different learning styles.
• Government and Education: Al argues that the government should trust and support educators more, giving them the resources and autonomy to innovate, rather than imposing rigid policies and targets.
• Innovative Practices: schools that take bold, innovative approaches to education should be praised for focusing on holistic student development rather than just academic metrics.
• Edtech Industry’s Approach: edtech companies should focus on creating simple, scalable, and flexible solutions that are easy for schools to implement, and should work closely with educators to understand their needs.
• Collaboration Over Competition: edtech vendors should build long-term relationships with schools, offering ongoing support and training rather than just selling products.
• The Need for Trust and Respect: rebuilding trust between the government, schools, and the wider education community is crucial for driving positive change in the sector.

It’s a great interview which we really enjoyed recording. Let us know your thoughts and questions in the comments.