As we approach the end of another academic year, we’ve been reflecting on the conversations we’ve had as part of our #FinnemoreFireside series. What started as a simple idea — talking to people doing interesting work across the education and edtech sectors — has grown into something far more valuable: a space for honest insight, shared challenges, and forward-looking ideas.

This year, we were fortunate to speak with some of the most respected names in the sector. Each guest brought a unique perspective, from market trends and MIS disruption to school operations, teacher recruitment, and how to build the right kind of business partnerships.

Here are just a few highlights:

Edtech, MATs and the future of adoption

We kicked things off with James Browning, COO at Lift Schools, who gave a clear-eyed view of how edtech adoption has evolved in multi-academy trusts. He unpacked what’s changed, where trust leaders are focusing now, and why implementation matters just as much as procurement.

Solving real school problems through MIS

Pete Collison from Compass Education joined us to share how their MIS is designed to tackle the biggest day-to-day issues schools face: recruitment, SEN pressures, and stretched budgets. It was a great reminder that solving problems, not selling features, is what makes an edtech solution stick.

The bigger picture in edtech

Al Kingsley, Group CEO of NetSupport, talked with us about the wider opportunities for education, from personalisation and flexibility to the importance of building tech with purpose. His experience in the sector always brings depth and he didn’t disappoint.

Navigating shifts and shaping the future

Simon Freeman from IRIS Education spoke to us about market shifts, partnerships, and building solutions that help schools thrive in a changing landscape. It’s clear their focus is on long-term value, not just short-term delivery.

When passion meets strategy

We were joined by Naimish Gohil and Louise Raw from Team Satchel, who spoke about their journey into the MIS world. It was brilliant to hear the thinking behind their move, and how a strong product vision backed by clear strategy can open new doors.

What’s next for MIS?

Joshua Perry offered his usual sharp take on everything from AI in assessment to how the MIS market is changing. He shared some thought-provoking points on what schools should really be asking when choosing a provider.

Marketing that schools actually want

Catherine Lane from The Influence Crowd returned to talk about education marketing that works — and why it starts with listening. Her thoughts on storytelling and shaping messages to fit schools’ real needs hit home for anyone involved in edtech sales or marketing.

People, priorities and the business of education

Jen Elliott and Andy Mackey, co-owners of EPM Ltd, gave us a candid view into running a people-centred business that supports schools through HR and payroll. Their insights into leadership and change were a great reminder of what matters most.

Built by teachers, for teachers

And finally, Brett Griffin shared the story behind Pupil Progress — born from first-hand experience of the pressure teachers face when tracking progress. His passion for simplifying that experience was clear, and it’s no wonder their platform is now used by hundreds of schools.

Looking ahead

We’ve already got more exciting conversations lined up for the new term including sessions with Stephen Bilboe and Andrew Henderson, watch this space.

Until then, thank you to all our guests and everyone in the our community who’s listened, shared, or joined the conversation this year. You can catch up on all episodes via our Fireside blog series.

Enjoy the summer break!

Nick & Sarah