Episodes

  • The Future of Education: AI, Innovation & High-Performance Schools with Vikas Pota
    Feb 9 2025

    Welcome toThe International Classroom Podcast! In this episode, I'm joined byVikas Pota, aleading voice in global education,Founder & CEO of T4 Education, andformer Chairman of the Varkey Foundation. Together, weunpack the future of education, exploring howAI is transforming learning, howschools can innovate, and what it takes tobuild high-performance learning environments.

    AI’s Role in Education’s Future – How AI is reshapingteaching and learning, and what it means forschools, teachers, and students.
    The Blueprint for High-Performing Schools – Vikas shares whattruly makes a school excel in today’s education landscape.
    The Power of Global Collaboration – Howeducators and schools worldwide are working together to drivemeaningful change.
    The Hidden Curriculum & School Culture – Whya strong school culture is crucial for student success.
    Innovation Beyond Technology – Howreal-world learning experiences are shapingthe next generation of thinkers and leaders.

    If you’re aneducator, school leader, or policymaker, this episode is packed withactionable strategies to help you:

    Integrate AI into the classroom effectively.
    Scale innovation within your school.
    Strengthen school culture for long-term success.
    Develop high-impact teaching & leadership practices.

    📢Don’t miss this essential conversation! HitSUBSCRIBE for expert insights on AI, education leadership, and thefuture of learning.

    🎙️ Available onApple Podcasts, Spotify & YouTube!


    🔗Connect with Vikas Pota & T4 Education:
    🌍 Website:T4Education.com
    💼 LinkedIn:Vikas Pota


    📢Join the conversation! Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know how YOU see the future of education evolving.

    #EducationPodcast #AIinEducation #SchoolLeadership #HighPerformanceSchools #EducationalInnovation #FutureOfLearning

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    43 mins
  • Rethinking Education for an AI Era: A Conversation with Tannya Jajal of AIDEN
    Feb 2 2025

    In this episode, Alex Gray sits down with Tannya Jajal, Founder and CEO of AIDEN, to explore how AI is transforming classrooms worldwide. From moving beyond rote memorisation and test-based models to emphasising critical thinking, creativity, and ethical AI usage, Tannya shares a compelling vision for future-ready learning. Discover practical strategies for reimagining traditional curricula, empowering teachers, and preparing students for a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

    Follow Tannya: LinkedIn
    AIDEN: Website

    🎬 Follow, listen and connect with me on other social platforms:
    Linktree
    Substack

    If you’re passionate about future-ready skills, innovation in the classroom, and 21st-century learning, don’t miss this insightful conversation. Subscribe and turn on notifications to stay up-to-date with the latest in AI-driven education and beyond.


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    42 mins
  • From Teacher to Coach: Rory Courlander on Transforming Schools and Unlocking Student Potential
    Jan 26 2025

    Is coaching the future of education? Join the International Classroom Podcast for this in-depth interview with Assistant Principal and ICF-Certified Coach, Rory Courlander, who shares how coaching is transforming schools, empowering teachers, and unlocking student potential. As the founder of Corelander Coaching and an IB Psychology Teacher at GEMS Dubai American Academy, Rory offers firsthand insights into building a culture of growth, boosting teacher well-being, and using reflective inquiry to foster purpose-driven leadership.

    In this episode, you’ll discover:

    • Proven coaching strategies that uplift teaching and learning
    • How to develop trust-based leadership and a coaching mindset in your school
    • Ways to reduce academic anxiety and help students take ownership of their success
    • The critical importance of well-being and self-reflection for educators

    If you’re passionate about educational leadership, professional development, and personal growth, this conversation is a must-listen. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more high-impact discussions on transforming schools and shaping the future of global education.

    ---------------------------------------------------------------------Follow Rory: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rory-courlander/

    Corelander Coaching: https://www.linkedin.com/company/corelander-coaching/?originalSubdomain=ae ---------------------------------------------------------------------🎬 Follow, listen and connect with me on other social platforms:

    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/ticpodcast

    Substack: https://substack.com/@theinternationalclassroom?r=4qrhps&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page

    ---------------------------------------------------------------------Subscribe to The International Classroom podcast for more episodes that bring you to the heart of educational innovation, and join us as we continue to explore how technology and traditional teaching methods can coexist to shape a brighter future for all learners.

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    1 hr and 13 mins
  • Authentic Educational Leadership: Reducing Anxiety and Empowering Teachers (feat. Zoubiya Ahmed)
    Jan 19 2025

    What does it take to create genuinely supportive schools that put teacher well-being at the core? In this episode, we dive deep into authentic leadership with award-winning educator and consultant Zoubiya Ahmed, who has over 20 years of experience across the UK, Middle East, and South Asia.

    Zoubiya unpacks how reducing anxiety in school systems boosts teacher satisfaction, improves retention, and ultimately leads to better student outcomes.

    Join us as we explore:

    • Practical Strategies for fostering a culture of empathy and human-centered leadership
    • Why psychological safety is the key to unlocking innovation in teaching and learning
    • Harnessing AI as a tool (not a crutch) for lesson planning and curriculum improvement
    • Insights into inclusion, equity, and addressing post-pandemic learning gaps
    • The importance of co-creation, trust, and self-leadership in driving school-wide change

    If you’re passionate about educational leadership, teacher empowerment, and reshaping schools for the future, this conversation is a must-listen.

    Don’t forget to subscribe for more insights on teaching, innovation, and leadership, and share your biggest takeaway from Zoubiya’s strategies in the comments below!

    ---------------------------------------------------------------------Follow Zoubiya: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoubiya/

    ---------------------------------------------------------------------🎬 Follow, listen and connect with me on other social platforms:

    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/ticpodcast

    Substack: https://substack.com/@theinternationalclassroom?r=4qrhps&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page

    ---------------------------------------------------------------------Subscribe to The International Classroom podcast for more episodes that bring you to the heart of educational innovation, and join us as we continue to explore how technology and traditional teaching methods can coexist to shape a brighter future for all learners.

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    1 hr and 13 mins
  • Lord Jim Knight on the Future of STEM and Sustainability
    Jan 12 2025

    Join Lord Jim Knight on this episode of The International Classroom Podcast as he explores how STEM can address critical global challenges, nurture creativity, and prepare students for tomorrow's workforce. From climate change to AI and quantum computing, we dive into the future of education and why hands-on learning is key to student success.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Why STEM education is essential for tackling global issues like sustainability and societal resilience.
    • How public policy and global perspectives are shaping the future of STEM.
    • The balance between technology and humanity in modern learning.
    • Practical tips for hands-on, project-based, and interdisciplinary approaches to teaching.

    Resources Mentioned:
    👉 Learn more about STEM Learning: https://www.stem.org.uk/
    👉 STEM For All Dubai: https://www.stem.org.uk/stem-for-all
    👉 Explore The International Classroom Podcast: https://linktr.ee/ticpodcast

    Timestamps:
    00:00 – Introduction to Jim Knight and His Background
    02:31 – The Intersection of Education and Technology
    07:10 – STEM Education and Societal Resilience
    12:33 – Public Policy's Role in STEM Education
    14:48 – Global Perspectives on STEM Education
    16:20 – Hands-On Learning vs. Screen-Based Learning
    20:19 – Project-Based Learning and Interdisciplinary Approaches
    23:52 – Balancing Digital and Physical Learning
    28:06 – Future-Proofing Education for Tomorrow's Jobs
    32:25 – The Role of Exam Boards in Educational Change
    34:54 – Exciting Innovations in STEM and Education

    Don’t miss future episodes – follow the podcast for more insights into education and innovation!

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    44 mins
  • Infinite Education with Dan Fitzpatrick: 4 Steps to Transform Your Classroom with AI
    Jan 5 2025

    In this exciting first episode of the new year, Alex sits down once again with Dan Fitzpatrick—author of The AI Classroom and now Infinite Education. Dan reveals how his latest book moves beyond quick classroom tips into a broader four-step strategic framework for schools: Scope, Shape, Influence, and Alignment. Whether you’re a classroom teacher or a head teacher in search of big-picture thinking, Dan’s practical advice and visionary insights will inspire you to question conventional methods and design new ones that meet the demands of an AI-driven world.

    In this conversation, you’ll learn about:
    • Why “infinite education” means breaking free of linear, test-centric mindsets
    • How AI can streamline day-to-day tasks yet open doors to deeper innovation
    • Strategies for leaders to bring everyone on board—from staff to students
    • The difference between having a plan and actually leading change
    • Embracing risk and “failure” as essential parts of real transformation

    Dan also shares the importance of speculative thinking, encouraging educators to imagine what AI-infused classrooms could look like in 5, 10, or even 15 years. If you’re eager to move beyond traditional systems and empower your school to adapt, grow, and thrive, you won’t want to miss this episode.

    > Get Dan’s new book Infinite Education : https://www.theaieducator.io/infiniteeducation
    Look for it on Amazon or wherever you buy your books.

    > Stay Connected

    • Follow Dan Fitzpatrick on LinkedIn


    Apply for the AI Changemakers: https://www.deepprofessional.com/ai-changemakers

    > Enjoying the content?
    Hit “Subscribe” for more episodes on the future of education and how AI is reshaping teaching and learning. Don’t forget to leave a comment or question—we’d love to hear your thoughts!


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    50 mins
  • EdTech in Action: Enhancing Student Engagement with SMART & Lumio | Mark Hartwright
    Jan 2 2025

    Explore how SMART Technology and Lumio are revolutionizing education in this engaging episode of The International Classroom Podcast! 🎓✨ Join Alex as he speaks with Mark Hartwright, Professional Development Lead at SMART Technologies, about the transformative power of EdTech in creating interactive, collaborative, and engaging learning environments for students of all ages. 🚀

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    • How SMART Technology enhances student engagement and collaboration.
    • The power of Lumio, a web-based interactive tool that works across devices.
    • Practical strategies for integrating EdTech into classrooms to support differentiation and adaptability.
    • Mark’s insights on transitioning from teaching primary students to leading professional development for educators.
    • Exciting innovations in EdTech, including physical-to-digital tools for interactive learning.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    • Interactive lessons for primary and secondary education.
    • Supporting diverse learning needs with technology.
    • Real-time collaboration tools for classrooms and remote learners.
    • Using EdTech to foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
    • Tips for educators to integrate technology effectively.


    💻 Learn More About Lumio: https://www.smarttech.com/lumio📚 Connect with Mark Hartwright: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-hartwright-4b546ab7/

    📺 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to The International Classroom Podcast for more expert insights and innovative strategies in education! 🔔

    #EdTech #SMARTTechnology #InteractiveLearning #EducationInnovation #Lumio #ClassroomEngagement #TeachingStrategies #TheInternationalClassroomPodcast #EducationTools

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    54 mins
  • Inside EduAid AI: Evidence-Based Teaching Made Easy
    Dec 31 2024

    Discover how EduAid AI is reshaping the way educators plan lessons, provide feedback, and engage their students. In this episode, host Alex welcomes Thomas Thompson IV, co-founder of EduAid AI, who shares a behind-the-scenes look at how this powerful tool leverages evidence-based teaching principles and the science of learning to transform classroom instruction. Thomas discusses the platform’s modular content generation, which helps teachers quickly design logical sequences of instruction, craft differentiated materials, and incorporate gamification elements like Jeopardy-style quizzes.

    Learn how EduAid AI’s feedback bot offers precise, positive, and actionable student feedback while maintaining data privacy. Thomas also tackles the nuances of large language models (LLMs)—from their limitations in handling math to their potential for streamlining lesson creation and saving teachers valuable time. Whether you’re new to AI or already exploring its classroom applications, you’ll gain insights on standards-based alignment, scaffolding strategies, and practical ways to ensure teacher retention and professional growth. Don’t miss this deep dive into the future of edtech—and find out how you can get started with EduAid AI to revolutionise your own teaching practice.

    Website: https://www.eduaide.ai/

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    47 mins