EdTech People

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  S6:1 Surviving September 15.09.2026 46dk

  Survive September: the IT lessons schools cannot afford to missSeptember hits hard for edtech and IT teams, and this conversation gets straight to the point: how to survive the chaos, keep projects moving, and stop the same avoidable problems from happening again. Matt and Jack unpack the realities of back-to-school season, where summer delivery turns into September firefighting fast.Matt and Jack get honest about the pressure points that hit hardest in education IT— incomplete handovers, missing passwords, fragile legacy systems, and the endless challenge of taking over new schools or new environments with limited context. Jack brings the perspective of moving from a cloud-first world into a hybrid one, while Matt shares what it really takes to support multiple schools, multiple teams, and multiple moving parts without losing control.You’ll discover:Why password management is not optional, especially when people leave or go off sickHow to separate project support from business-as-usual support so issues do not get lost in the handoverWhy a technical plan, delivery plan, and proper closeout documentation matter more at scale than everHow SOPs, screen recordings, and central documentation turn tribal knowledge into something a whole team can useWhy AI, APIs, and automated data mapping are becoming essential for understanding systems, identity flows, and licensing across schoolsMatt also shares how his team is building a live portal that brings together data from systems like Intune, Google, Halo, HubSpot, Bob HR, and more, giving customers and internal teams visibility over devices, licences, onboarding, and procurement. Jack adds a smart angle on identity mapping, single sign-on, and using Claude to help build a clearer picture of where schools are now and where they need to get to.The bigger message is simple: if you do not know what you have, where it lives, and how it talks to everything else, you cannot make good decisions, save money, or move safely to cloud. And if you are in the middle of that September scramble, this episode offers something better than theory—it gives you perspective, practical frameworks, and a reminder that you are not the only one in the middle of it.Perfect for IT leaders, edtech teams, MSPs, and school tech staff who need a realistic reset on documentation, handover, automation, and strategy. If September feels like chaos, this one will make you feel a lot less alone.
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  Who’s Really Watching the Devices? 17.07.2026 46dk

  In this end-of-season episode of EdTech People, Matt and Jack reflect on the often-overlooked pressure faced by school IT teams during the summer, when major upgrades, migrations and preparations take place before staff and pupils return.The main discussion focuses on the 2026 updates to Keeping Children Safe in Education, particularly the growing importance of effective filtering and monitoring. They explore the need for annual reviews, clear senior leadership accountability, staff training and stronger understanding of how safeguarding systems are configured and used. They also discuss emerging risks including AI-generated intimate images, deepfakes, misogyny, harmful online behaviour and the limitations of monitoring on personal or unmanaged devices.The conversation then broadens into the challenges of BYOD, iPads and one-to-one device programmes. Matt and Jack argue that school-managed devices provide stronger safeguarding, greater equity and more consistent access to learning, but only when supported by the right leadership, training and implementation. The episode closes with reflections on education’s lost momentum since the pandemic, the continuing value of technology in improving life chances, and, inevitably, the frustrations of school printers.
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  Overwatch: CCTV in Education 01.07.2026 49dk

  🎤 Ever felt overwhelmed by the chaos of managing school tech? You're not alone! In this episode, we dive into the complexities of CCTV management in schools. From access control to privacy concerns, we unravel how to effectively navigate this digital landscape. With the rise of technology, ensuring that everyone knows the policies and follows them is crucial. Still figuring out how to balance tech and education? You’re not the only one. #EdTech #SchoolSafety #CCTVManagement #DigitalTransformation #TechInSchools
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  Edtech People Sessions: Cyber Security in Education 14.06.2026 1sa 2dk

  In the first of our new Edtech People Sessions format - join regular hosts Matthew Setchell and Jack Marshall and our panel to discuss all things Cyber Security in Education.From the basics - "What is Cyber Security?" to understanding if there is a single solution that can fix all your cyber security issues (there isn't) and so what can you do to make it less risky?Panel:Ian Stockbridge (Ian Stockbridge | LinkedIn), Chris Maddocks (Chris Maddocks | LinkedIn)Austen Puleston (Austen Puleston | LinkedIn)Useful Links:Cyber Security for Schools | National Cyber Security Centre
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  IT: Endgame. 03.06.2026 42dk

  After a little issue with Jack's macbook being rubbish, we pick up a conversation around CyberSecurity in edtech. We ponder the impact, how we would react, and if schools are doing enoughPlus - a very big announcement from Jack...Email: [email protected]
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  Think large trusts save money centrally? Think again. 20.05.2026 40dk

  Join Matthew and Jack as they explore the latest in EdTech, including school data benchmarking, AI integration, filtering systems, and the challenges of implementing technology in education. Gain insights into strategic planning, accessibility tools, and future trends in educational technology.
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  How major cloud outages and no money disrupt schools and their IT 06.05.2026 44dk

  Most schools depend heavily on cloud services, but what happens when they go down? From system outages to financial crises — revealing how educational institutions can prepare for the inevitable disruptions. Plus, we explore the growing financial pressures facing multi-academy trusts, with insights into how budget constraints impact IT decisions — from hardware refresh cycles to leasing versus buying refurbished equipment. Both Matt and Jack's views are their own, not of their employers. Find out more about the show at edtechpeople.co.uk
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  DfE Change Wifi Standards, Phones banned in school and IT Strategy waffle 22.04.2026 41dk

  Matt and Jack discuss the recent changes to the DfE Technology Standards, including around Wifi, discuss banning phones in schools and if it will make any impact (it won't) and IT Strategy.
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  Time for something new 09.04.2026 51dk

  Meet Matt & Jack, as Edtech People switches to a fortnightly format, where we will pick some cool things to talk about and keep the episodes short and sweet (ish)Join Matthew and Jack as they explore the evolving landscape of education technology, AI integration, project management, and the future of IT roles in schools and trusts. This episode offers insights into cloud migration, AI tools, team development, and strategic planning for educational institutions.This podcast is supported by Smoothwall, Secure Schools, Classroom Bookings and 1st Pillar. See our website for links!
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  Joshua Perry - The Evolution of MIS 27.01.2026 1sa 12dk

  In this episode, Joshua Perry discusses the evolution of Management Information Systems (MIS) in education, highlighting key market changes, the shift to cloud technology, and the role of AI. He shares insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by MIS vendors and the impact of these systems on schools.
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  Shayne Grove: Connectivity, Security and why we hate BYOD 11.12.2025 59dk

  In this episode, Matthew Setchell interviews Shayne Grove, Chief Sales Officer at Schools Broadband, discussing the evolution of school connectivity, the impact of multi-academy trusts, and the challenges of security and safeguarding in educational IT systems. They explore the rise of alternative networks, the implications of BYOD policies, and the potential of AI in education. The conversation also touches on innovations like low Earth orbit satellites as backup connectivity solutions and the importance of resilience in school networks.
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  Imogen Ley-Clowes - Branding Beyond Logos: The EdTech Perspective 07.12.2025 43dk

  In this episode of EdTech People, Matthew Setchell interviews Imogen Ley-Clowes, a branding expert in the educational technology sector. They discuss the importance of branding, marketing strategies tailored for educational audiences, and the role of trust and authenticity in building a brand. Imogen shares insights on rebranding challenges, the significance of thought leadership, and how AI is transforming branding and marketing practices. The conversation highlights the need for effective communication and understanding diverse audience needs in the education space.
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  Jack Marshall - "We need to learn by doing." 01.12.2025 1sa 35dk

  In this episode of EdTechPeople, Matthew Setchell speaks with Jack Marshall, the Senior IT Operations Manager at DRB Ignite. They discuss the evolving role of IT in education, the importance of practical experience over formal qualifications, and the need for a supportive team culture. Jack shares insights on learning by doing, the value of mentorship, and the challenges of career progression in IT. They also explore the significance of standardization in IT infrastructure and the necessity of bridging the technical divide for effective communication within educational settings. In this conversation, Jack and Matthew discuss the importance of team culture, dynamic help desk management, and the transition to a more structured ITIL framework. They explore the challenges and successes of cloud migrations in educational settings, emphasizing the need for contextual awareness in IT support. The discussion also touches on the future of technology in education, including the potential of AI and the importance of strategic planning in IT.
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  James Paveley - Navigating the EdTech Landscape 06.07.2025 1sa 11dk

  In this episode of EdTech People, host Matthew Setchell welcomes James Paveley, who shares his journey in educational technology, discussing his experiences with managed services, the importance of building trust in IT relationships, and the role of school business professionals. They delve into the challenges of cybersecurity in schools, the significance of data management, and the future of IT in education. The conversation emphasises the need for effective communication and collaboration between IT professionals and educators to enhance the learning environment.
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  Brett Griffin - "The future is integration." 09.06.2025 58dk

  In this episode of EdTech People, host Matthew Setchell speaks with Brett Griffin, founder of Pupil Progress, about the challenges and innovations in educational technology. Brett shares his journey from being a teacher to creating a platform that simplifies data tracking and monitoring for schools. They discuss the importance of technology in reducing teacher workload, the challenges of implementing EdTech solutions in schools, and the future of integration in educational software. Brett emphasises the need for intuitive software that meets the real needs of educators and the impact of technology on student outcomes.
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  Carl Curless - Transforming Education Through Data Analytics 02.06.2025 54dk

  In this episode of Ed Tech People, Matthew Setchell interviews Carl Curless, head of data and analytics at the Endeavour Learning Trust. They discuss the evolving role of data in education, particularly within multi-academy trusts, and the transition from traditional systems like SIMS to cloud-based management systems such as Arbor. Carl shares insights on the importance of data visualization, staff engagement with data, and the potential of AI innovations to reduce workload for educators. The conversation also touches on the challenges of integrating new systems and the future of data management in education, emphasising the need for user-friendly interfaces and centralized data solutions.
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  Chris Byers - Navigating the Evolution of EdTech 24.05.2025 1sa 28dk

  In this episode of EdTech People, Chris Byers discusses the evolution of educational technology in schools, starting from the National Grid for Learning project to the current landscape dominated by cloud technology and cybersecurity challenges. The conversation explores the impact of academy groups on IT management, the shift towards cloud solutions, and the importance of effective backup strategies. Chris emphasises the need for schools to invest in IT to realise long-term savings and highlights the role of community support through platforms like Edugeek. The discussion also touches on the future of EdTech, particularly the implications of AI as a disruptive technology.
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  Phil Wakeman - "Maybe we shouldn't give everyone laptops" 19.05.2025 1sa

  SummaryIn this episode of EdTechPeople, Matthew Setchell interviews Phil Wakeman, the Regional ICT Manager for Academy Transformation Trust. Phil shares his extensive experience in the education technology sector, discussing the challenges and opportunities in managing IT services across multiple academies. The conversation covers topics such as funding challenges, the importance of infrastructure, the shift to cloud services, and the role of training in empowering educators. Phil also highlights the evolving nature of IT support in schools and the critical importance of cybersecurity and AI in shaping the future of education technology.
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  Maria Smith - "I wanted to make a product that does everything. 12.05.2025 55dk

  In this episode of Ed Tech People, host Matthew Setchell speaks with Maria Smith, the founder of Admicity, a software solution designed to streamline school administration processes. Maria shares her journey from working as an admissions officer in a school to identifying the inefficiencies in the system and creating a product that automates workflows, enhances parental engagement, and integrates seamlessly with existing systems like SIMS. The conversation explores the challenges faced by schools in adopting new technology, the importance of data management, and the potential of AI to revolutionise educational practices. Maria emphasises the need for user-friendly solutions that empower school staff and ultimately benefit students.
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  Tim Line - "This is a whole school thing, not just an IT problem." 23.04.2025 1sa 5dk

  In this episode, Matthew Setchell speaks with Tim from Secure Schools about the critical role of cybersecurity in education. They discuss the unique challenges schools face in securing their digital environments, the importance of implementing effective cybersecurity measures, and the need for a cultural shift within schools to prioritise cybersecurity. Tim emphasises the risks associated with inadequate cybersecurity and the potential impact on safeguarding students. The conversation also touches on the role of parents and the community in fostering a secure educational environment, as well as the future of cybersecurity standards in schools.