Episode Overview

In this episode of The EdTech Podcast, we bring together three educators who have moved beyond using AI—to actively creating with it. From building bespoke tools and secure large language models to designing simple, classroom-ready solutions, this conversation explores what it means to be an educator–creator in an AI-driven world.

Chris Loveday shares how his college has developed over 20 AI-powered agents to support both operational efficiency and student experience, including a fully safeguarded internal large language model designed with education-specific guardrails. His work highlights critical themes of digital equity, safeguarding, and the importance of keeping humans firmly in the loop.

Aaron Patching brings a practical, classroom-level perspective—demonstrating how teachers can use tools like Canva and low-code platforms to solve everyday challenges. From interactive recall quizzes to real-time navigation tools for parents’ evenings, he shows how small, purposeful innovations can have a big impact on workload and engagement.

Dan Comber explores how AI can transform static school resources into dynamic, interactive experiences. From chatbot-powered policy access to rethinking how students and parents engage with key information, his work focuses on accessibility, communication, and embedding AI into school culture—not just as a tool, but as part of how systems operate.

Across the conversation, a shared message emerges: successful AI integration in education is not about the technology itself, but about solving real problems, building staff confidence, and maintaining a strong ethical and human-centred approach. The episode also tackles key challenges, including staff training, sustainability, data privacy, and the need for clear governance.

Whether you’re just starting out or already experimenting, this episode offers practical insights, honest reflections, and a powerful reminder—AI in education isn’t something happening to us, it’s something we can actively shape.

Chris Loveday: linkedin.com/in/chris-loveday-5b712622b/ 

Aaron Patching: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-patching/

Dan Comber: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-comber-teacher/ 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to AI in Education

02:50 Creating Bespoke AI Solutions

05:48 Student-Centric AI Tools

08:46 Empowering Educators with AI

11:24 Innovative Approaches to Teaching

14:20 Bridging the Gap with AI

14:49 Overcoming Resistance to AI

16:54 Interactive Learning with AI

20:03 The Future of AI in Education

25:51 Building Effective Data Systems in Education

27:02 Exploring AI's Role in Education

29:26 Engaging Staff with AI Technology

31:49 Implementing AI in the Classroom

33:13 Educating Students on AI Literacy

35:31 The Importance of Continuous Training

37:46 Practical Tools for Teachers

41:42 Sustainability and AI in Education

45:36 Advice for Educators Embracing AI

52:22 NEWCHAPTER

Resources

AI and Education Steering Panel - https://aieducation.org

Canva - https://www.canva.com

Claude AI - https://www.anthropic.com

ChatGPT - https://chat.openai.com

Google AI Tools - https://ai.google/

Discover how Taskmaster Club has been adapted for schools to build confidence, problem-solving, teamwork, and resilience among students. Hosted by Philippa Wraithmell, this episode features insights from educators implementing the program across primary and special needs schools, highlighting the power of fun in education

Taskmaster Education – Creativity, Confidence, and Learning Through Play

In this episode, we explore how Taskmaster Education is being brought into schools—transforming a much-loved TV format into a powerful learning experience that builds creativity, resilience, and real-world skills.

What we cover:

• From screen to school:
  The key differences between the original TV show and its educational adaptation—retaining the magic, while creating a more positive, inclusive, and resilience-focused environment for students.
• Making it work in schools:
  Practical ways educators are implementing Taskmaster, from lunchtime activities to after-school clubs—ensuring accessibility and engagement for all students.
• Engagement beyond the classroom:
  The role of video, team dynamics, and even social media in capturing student interest and bringing families into the learning experience.
• Building real-world skills:
  How tasks naturally develop communication, persuasion, lateral thinking, and problem-solving—skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
• Confidence in action:
  Stories of students growing in confidence, taking ownership of their learning, and independently completing challenges they may once have avoided.
• Connecting school and home:
  The impact of parental involvement and community engagement, with learning continuing beyond the school gates.
• The power of play and failure:
  Why fun matters—and how embracing failure helps to build a genuine growth mindset in students.
• Creative challenges that inspire:
  Unique prize tasks that encourage imagination and personal expression—from building inventive structures to creating meaningful, memorable gifts.
• Unexpected outcomes:
  From students feeling confident enough to be silly, to developing deeper critical thinking—what happens when learners are given permission to explore and experiment.

Guests

Richard Sandle-Keynes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-sandle-keynes-b158aa32/

Nicki Cotter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicki-cotter-64659025a/

Poppy Bond

Stephen Candy: https://www.instagram.com/stephencandyphotography/

Ali Struthers: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ali-struthers-573558b3/

James Blake-Lobb: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-blake-lobb/

Key Topics

• Adapting Taskmaster for Education
• Benefits for Special Needs Students
• Building Confidence and Resilience
• Teamwork and Communication Skills
• Real-World Problem Solving

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Taskmaster Club

04:32 Adapting Taskmaster for Special Needs Education

09:15 The Role of Fun and Creativity in Learning

12:53 Building Community and Parental Engagement

17:49 Fostering Skills Through Taskmaster Club

22:24 Communication and Teamwork in Taskmaster Club

26:48 The Impact of Prize Tasks on Learning

31:13 Conclusion and Reflections on Taskmaster Club

Resources

Taskmaster Club Official Website - https://taskmastereducation.com/ 

Taskmaster Club: https://taskmastereducation.com/news/tm-club-2 

Taskmaster Education Resources on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@taskmastereducation 

#322: Safeguarding in the Age of AI: Who’s Responsible?

In this engaging conversation, Sponsored by Hachette Learning Academy, Laura Knight discusses her extensive experience in education and her focus on integrating technology effectively within the classroom. She emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to EdTech, addressing not only the pedagogical aspects but also the emotional and social well-being of students. The discussion delves into the challenges of safeguarding in the digital age, the significance of scenario-based learning, and the ongoing debate surrounding screen time and digital engagement. Laura advocates for a shift in educational practices to better prepare students for the complexities of the digital world, highlighting the need for self-regulation, digital literacy, and a collaborative effort between parents and educators. The conversation concludes with insights from Laura's white paper, which outlines three key pillars for fostering digital responsibility in children: capability, conscience, and courage.

Key Takeaways

• Laura Knight emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to EdTech.
• Safeguarding in the digital age is a shared responsibility among educators and parents.
• Screens themselves are neutral; the focus should be on the content accessed.
• Teaching self-regulation and digital literacy is crucial for young people.
• Generational differences impact how technology is perceived and used.
• The need for change in educational approaches is urgent and necessary.
• Digital ecosystems significantly influence children's learning and relationships.
• Peer support among parents can enhance digital literacy discussions.
• The three pillars of digital literacy are capability, conscience, and courage.
• Education must prepare children to thrive in a digital world with integrity.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Laura Knight and Her Work

02:55 The Holistic Approach to EdTech

06:12 Navigating Safeguarding in the Digital Age

09:04 The Reality of Cyber Attacks in Schools

12:03 The Debate on Screen Time and Digital Engagement

17:49 The Importance of Self-Regulation in Digital Spaces

25:04 Generational Perspectives on Technology and Parenting

28:01 The Generational Gap and Digital Disempowerment

30:12 Addressing the Digital Divide: Strategies for Change

36:54 Early Conversations: Building Foundations for Digital Literacy

37:51 Synthetic Intimacy: The Dangers of AI Relationships

45:22 Educating for Digital Life: The Three Pillars of Capability, Conscience, and Courage

Laura Knight Linkedin

Hachette Learning and Professional Development