MATPN DIGITAL 2025 AGENDA

MATPN Digital is a unique, learning and networking event which brings together the most inspirational leaders and transformational suppliers in the MAT sector to share cutting-edge insight, knowledge and experience. Our agenda is carefully curated to address the most relevant and emerging challenges in the sector.

8th May, DoubleTree Hilton, Tower of London

Day 1

08 May 2025

8:00 am - 9:00 am

Main Room

Registration
9:00 am - 9:05 am

Main Room

Chair's opening remarks

Dr. Fiona Aubrey-Smith

Founder
PedTech

Welcome to the MAT Partnership Network!
9:05 am - 9:35 am

Main Room

Opening keynote panel: Shaping the digital future of MATs

Dr. Fiona Aubrey-Smith

Founder
PedTech

John Barneby is the CEO of Oasis Community Learning (OCL), the third largest Multi-Academy Trust in the UK, and has been working in education for the last 20 years. John started his career working in the commercial sector before becoming involved in the Building Schools for the Future Programme and the original academies movement under Tony Blair’s government. It is through these projects that John developed his passion for education and social justice. In 2008, John stepped out of the commercial sector and came to work with Oasis, initially leading the IT department and using his commercial skills to develop the solid infrastructure needed for Oasis to grow rapidly and become the high-performing Muti-Academy Trust it is today. John holds a number of service-related qualifications including System Architect and Expert ITIL Service Manager and has been leading at C-Suite level for 10 years. John is also an RSA Fellow, is passionate about the environment, and thoroughly enjoys spending time in the outdoors with his young family.

John Barneby

Chief Executive Officer
Oasis Community Learning

Paul Stone

Chief Executive Officer
Discovery Schools Academy Trust

Androulla Nicou

Chief Executive
Connect Education Trust

As rising costs and constrained budgets challenge the education sector, MATs are navigating a crucial juncture. The digital future of MATs demands innovative solutions that not only enhance learning outcomes but also optimise operations ...

As rising costs and constrained budgets challenge the education sector, MATs are navigating a crucial juncture. The digital future of MATs demands innovative solutions that not only enhance learning outcomes but also optimise operations for sustainable growth.

Hear from our panel of experts, who explore how they are leveraging technology to empower students, enrich educational experiences, and secure long-term financial stability.

– How is leadership fostering a culture of innovation to embrace future technologies and ensuring digital remains at the heart of teaching and learning?
– How is stakeholder collaboration and knowledge sharing, shaping and delivering the digital strategy of the future across the organisation?
– In what ways can digital innovation help MATs address current financial challenges, while creating long-term growth and resilience in the education sector, and what strategies can they adopt to balance rising costs with investments in solutions that improve learning outcomes and operational efficiency?
– How are MATs leveraging technology to analyse their data, enabling them to generate actionable insights that improve operating practices, enhance student learning outcomes, and support evidence based decision-making across schools?
9:35 am - 9:50 am

Main Room

Going to School in 2035 - What might learning look like?

Google for Education helps transform teaching and learning so that every student can realise their full learning potential. We believe that everyone – educators and learners at every age and stage – deserve the tools and skills that set them up for success in building the future they want for themselves.

Anu Manthri

Head of Google for Education, UK & I
Google for Education

Google for Education helps transform teaching and learning so that every student can realise their full learning potential. We believe that everyone – educators and learners at every age and stage – deserve the tools and skills that set them up for success in building the future they want for themselves.

Grace Kelly

Head of Digital Transformation UK&I
Google

Google for Education helps transform teaching and learning so that every student can realise their full learning potential. We believe that everyone – educators and learners at every age and stage – deserve the tools and skills that set them up for success in building the future they want for themselves.

Fiona Law

Partnership, Programmes and Communities Lead
Google

In the future, our schools can be vibrant hubs of personalised learning, where technology leads students on individual pathways and teaching is restored to its rightful place as the most prestigious profession. Google technologies allow ...

In the future, our schools can be vibrant hubs of personalised learning, where technology leads students on individual pathways and teaching is restored to its rightful place as the most prestigious profession. Google technologies allow every student access to an infinite curriculum; assessment will be transformed; while advanced collaboration tools will connect learners across the globe. The classroom walls may dissolve, replaced by boundless exploration and the pursuit of knowledge tailored to each unique mind. Join Google to explore the art of the possible in the future of education- in order to prepare your learners and workforces today.

Key learning points: assistive technology for SEND and inclusion; digital skills; sustainable digital strategy, collaboration within and between schools
9:55 am - 10:15 am

Main Room

Dragons' den - Speed presentations

Our signature ‘Dragons’ Den’ session provides each solution provider with an opportunity to deliver a 60 second pitch, explaining why they are here and how their services can help tackle some of the sectorâ€™s ongo...

Our signature ‘Dragons’ Den’ session provides each solution provider with an opportunity to deliver a 60 second pitch, explaining why they are here and how their services can help tackle some of the sectorâ€™s ongoing challenges.
10:20 am - 11:10 am

Main Room

Networking and business meetings

10 minute meetings with suppliers who are offering solutions most relevant to your challenges. Please check the schedule on the back of your delegate pass for your meeting timings.
11:15 am - 11:45 am

Main Room

Keynote panel discussion: Aligning digital technology with teaching and learning

Dr. Fiona Aubrey-Smith

Founder
PedTech

Sarah is an experienced school and system leader with teaching and leadership expertise spanning across schools, trusts and initial teacher training. As Head of System Leadership at Inspiring Futures through Learning (IFtL), she leads the Learning and Development (CPD) offer, designing system leadership approaches to build sustainable capacity and expertise across the system. Sarah champions evidence-led, research based, professional learning settings and her leadership approach is to create opportunities for colleagues to collaborate with and inspire each other to think creatively. Vitally, Sarah’s work ensures that learning and learners at the heart of solutions and provision.

Sarah is highly respected by school leaders and teachers across the sector, for the thoughtful way in which she combines her extensive educational expertise with positive challenge and a nurturing style. The impact of the work she leads can be seen in the transformational learning that takes place at scale across IFtL’s twenty schools, as well as across countless cohorts of teacher training and development. Sarah’s work leading Digital Learning at IFtL has taken a pathfinding approach, placing the interaction of pedagogy and digital at its heart and vitally, pivoting around the needs and aspirations of children and young people.

Sarah Hand

Head of Systems Leadership
Inspiring Futures through Learning

As Director for Digital Learning at LEO Academy Trust, Cheryl Shirley leads digital strategy and empowers nearly 5,000 pupils with future-ready computing skills. She provides expert support to leaders and teachers in implementing effective digital practices within the classroom. Her leadership extends to supporting other schools and Multi Academy Trusts in their digital journeys. Cheryl’s expertise has been recognised with a Pearson Silver Award for Digital Innovator of the Year in 2022. She is also a Fellow of the Chartered College of Teaching and holds a National Professional Qualification in Headship.

Cheryl Shirley

Director Digital Learning
LEO Academy Trust

Matt Harrison

Head of Technology
Epping Forest Schools Partnership Trust

Rachel Quick

Interim Chief Executive
The Wherry School Trust

In a world where technology touches every aspect of our lives, how are MATs leveraging it to enrich the learning experience?
Join our expert panel to explore research and key findings on the positive impact of digital technology in...

In a world where technology touches every aspect of our lives, how are MATs leveraging it to enrich the learning experience?
Join our expert panel to explore research and key findings on the positive impact of digital technology in education, highlighting how technology has been strategically integrated to align with pedagogical goals, driving meaningful and measurable impact in education.
– What research has been conducted on the positive impact of digital technology on teaching and learning, and what are the key findings?
– How have real-world applications of technology transformed teaching and learning experiences and what this looks like in practice?
– What are the critical steps in ensuring a smooth transition when implementing new technologies across the trust?
– How are trusts realising the full potential of digital technology and embracing technology advancements, while addressing the challenges of rising costs and sustainable growth?
11:45 am - 12:00 pm

Main Room

Why is it important to align educators and technical teams?

Sync supports schools across the UK, aiding in the adoption, deployment, and ongoing use of technology. This includes the provision of hardware and software solutions as well as training, technical support, and more.

Our approach covers everything from helping schools introduce the latest devices into the classroom, guiding CPD and curriculum strategies. Meanwhile our work with Apple Financial Services and recycle scheme ensures older devices never go to waste. Whilst the technology and deployment practices have updated through the years, our mission statement has continued to stay the same; delivering customer-centric solutions via a consultancy-lead approach.

Simon Birch

Regional Education Manager
Sync

This session will explore why it is crucial that tech teams and educators work together to develop their institution’s digital strategy. As an Apple Authorised Education Specialist, Simon Birch has years of experience supporting school...

This session will explore why it is crucial that tech teams and educators work together to develop their institution’s digital strategy. As an Apple Authorised Education Specialist, Simon Birch has years of experience supporting schools on their digital journeys. Whether from procurement to management and CPD, Simon’s expertise covers a range of steps on the roadmap to digital experience.
12:05 pm - 12:20 pm

Main Room

Canva Clash: Unleash Your Creative Genius!

Canva for Education is an all-in-one visual communication platform. It’s 100% free for MAT’s, schools, teachers, and students. Bring your ideas to life with high-quality templates from presentations, posters, infographics, videos, digital whiteboards, newsletters, marketing collateral, websites and so much more. Facilitate engaging learning in the classroom and empower your students with the skills of tomorrow.

Andy Caffrey

Chief Executive Officer
Canva for Education

Katie Storey

Head of Canva
Canopy

Join us for an electrifying showdown where we go head-to-head in a battle of design brilliance! Witness the magic of Canva’s AI tools as we craft stunning visuals, captivating animations, and interactive elements in real time. Get ...

Join us for an electrifying showdown where we go head-to-head in a battle of design brilliance! Witness the magic of Canva’s AI tools as we craft stunning visuals, captivating animations, and interactive elements in real time. Get ready to be inspired, amazed, and entertained as we push the boundaries of creativity. This session is not just about learning; it’s about experiencing the joy of design and discovering the endless possibilities that Canva offers for transforming your school’s teaching and learning.
12:20 pm - 1:00 pm

Main Room

Networking lunch

An opportunity to connect with your peers and suppliers to talk over the learnings from the event. Lunch is served buffet style and a range of options are available to cater for different dietary requirements.
1:05 pm - 1:35 pm

Main Room

Panel discussion: Integrating AI with a broad ecosystem approach

Dr Neelam Parmar

Consultant and Advisor

Ather Abbas

Director of Digital, Data and Transformation
King Edward VI Foundation Birmingham

Richard Anderton is the Head of Digital Transformation for the Arthur Terry Learning Partnership (ATLP), a Multi-Academy Trust comprising 24 schools, 12,000 students, and 1,500 staff. He spearheads Learning Futures, ATLPâ€™s equitable 1:1 device initiative, leading the deployment and integration of over 12,500 iPads for students and staff. This initiative drives a vision of empowering learning and shaping futures through a pedagogy-first approach.

Richard also oversees the organisationâ€™s broader digital strategy. His work focuses on enhancing efficiencies, achieving cost savings, and pioneering ATLPâ€™s AI strategy to further innovation and progress

Richard Anderton

Digital Transformation Lead
The Arthur Terry Learning Partnership

Julie Carson

Director of Education
Woodland Academy Trust

Successfully adopting AI requires more than just technology â€” it demands a holistic approach that incorporates the broader ecosystem.
This includes the people who will interact with the AI systems and the operational process...

Successfully adopting AI requires more than just technology â€” it demands a holistic approach that incorporates the broader ecosystem.
This includes the people who will interact with the AI systems and the operational processes they support. A broad ecosystem approach ensures that AI adoption aligns with organisational goals, is inclusive of diverse stakeholders, and optimises both technical and human elements for long term success.
– How can organisations effectively engage people in AI adoption to foster trust and collaboration?
– What is the role of AI in supporting all different people and operational functions?
– What operational processes need to evolve to support seamless AI integration?
– Has the right regulation been put in place to help MATs leaders meet ethical standards, privacy, security and address concerns around compliance and accuracy?
2:20 pm - 3:10 pm

Main Room

Networking and business meetings

10 minute meetings with suppliers who are offering solutions most relevant to your challenges. Please check the schedule on the back of your delegate pass for your meeting timings.
3:15 pm - 3:45 pm

Main Room

Panel discussion: Enhancing cybersecurity and data resilience in education

Kevin Broadfoot

Corporate Director
New College Durham Academies Trust

Jenny Bonson

Chief Information Officer
St Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Academy Trust

Chris Everard

Chief Operating Officer
The Active Learning Trust

Ash Mudaliar

Director of IT
Creative Education Trust

Martin Simpson is Director of Technology at Lift Schools and former Director of IT at City of London Academies Trust. With extensive experience in digital transformation, cybersecurity, and operational leadership, he has led large-scale technology programmes, streamlined systems, and delivered innovative solutions across the education sector

Martin Simpson

Director of Technology
LIFT Schools

Educational institutions face growing cyber threats, including data breaches and ransomware attacks. To protect sensitive information and ensure uninterrupted learning, schools must prioritise disaster recovery, data security, privacy co...

Educational institutions face growing cyber threats, including data breaches and ransomware attacks. To protect sensitive information and ensure uninterrupted learning, schools must prioritise disaster recovery, data security, privacy compliance, and efficient data management. Striking the right balance between security and accessibility is essential for creating a safe, productive educational environment.

This discussion highlights actionable insights and best practices for MATs to strengthen their cybersecurity and data resilience.

– What are the most common cyber threats targeting schools, and how can they assess their vulnerabilities?
– What should a comprehensive disaster recovery plan for schools include, and how can institutions test its effectiveness?
– How can implementing multi-factor authentication and encryption effectively bolster data security?
– How can MATs safeguard sensitive data while ensuring accessibility, and how can emerging technologies and cloud-based solutions help strike a balance between security and usability?
– How can organisations shift from a reactive approach to a proactive approach towards cybersecurity?
4:25 pm - 4:35 pm

Main Room

Reflections and next actions/commitments
4:35 pm - 5:30 pm

Main Room

Networking drinks reception
1:40 pm - 1:55 pm

Breakout Room 1

School WiFi Unplugged: Solving Performance & Security Problems

At Redway Networks we help MATs accelerate digital transformation with robust, centrally managed cloud-networks. Our high-performance IT infrastructures are designed by certified, experienced engineers using leading technology brands. We use best-practice methodology to deliver future-proofed, high-density networks that deliver fast, secure communications with centralised managed via a single cloud dashboard. With school networks being critical to learning success, we provide proactive managed support to ensure optimal performance and security.

• Professional WiFi Surveys
• Network Audits
• Cloud-Managed WiFi, Switches & Firewalls
• Education Network Experts
• 100s of Successful Implementations

Visit us at the show to find out more.

Lee Wright

Senior Pre-Sales Consultant
Redway Networks

Multi-Academy Trusts often oversee multiple schools, each with hundreds or thousands of student and staff devices connected to the network. Poorly designed networks with the wrong equipment can cause slow speeds, connectivity issues, and...

Multi-Academy Trusts often oversee multiple schools, each with hundreds or thousands of student and staff devices connected to the network. Poorly designed networks with the wrong equipment can cause slow speeds, connectivity issues, and disruptions to digital learning.

Certified Wireless Network Expert, Lee Wright will take a deep dive into these issues using his technical knowledge and own experience to deliver a check list of how you can optimise and secure your schools’ networks and make them both fast and secure.
2:00 pm - 2:15 pm

Breakout Room 1

Unlocking Digital Transformation Maturity in Education

Used by over 13,000 schools and trusts, our management information system brings next-generation technology into schools, reinventing the way data and insights are used to improve educational outcomes.
Trusts such as Unity Schools, Kernow Learning, Future Academies and Durrington, and schools including Wallisdean, and Culcheth High School, use our technology to connect people with data, creating intelligent insights to help educators make better decisions and deliver smarter outcomes for pupils.
We are passionate about helping individuals, teams and organisations be successful and with time on your side, you can focus on what really matters to you. Time means value. And value means success.

Michelle Barry

Product Director
Iris Software Group

The education sector is evolving rapidly, and digital transformation is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity. But where does your trust sit on the digital transformation maturity curve?
In this session, we’ll explore the...

The education sector is evolving rapidly, and digital transformation is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity. But where does your trust sit on the digital transformation maturity curve?
In this session, we’ll explore the Digital Transformation Maturity Model, helping MAT leaders assess where they are today and what’s needed to build a future-proof, tech-enabled trust. We’ll cover:
• The key stages of digital transformation maturity for MATs
• Common barriers and how to overcome them
• Real-world examples of MATs successfully driving transformation
• Practical steps to enhance efficiency, compliance, and engagement through digital tools
Join us to gain insights into how a strategic approach to digital transformation can unlock operational efficiencies, drive better outcomes, and empower leadership teams to make data-driven decisions with confidence.
1:40 pm - 1:55 pm

Breakout Room 2

Digital transformation of schools: from No10 to the classroom

Stop trawling through school websites and policies.
Robin does all the hard work for you, with its AI-powered compliance checks and policy audits. Free up your team’s time, feel confident your schools are compliant and identify areas for improvement. Join 40+ MATS (500+ schools) today.

Joe Blair

Co-Founder & Director
Robin

What should technology and data in the school system look like, and how close are we to getting there? Joe reflects on his rollercoaster year as a No 10 Innovation Fellow at the DfE, seeing the challenges and opportunities first hand.

What should technology and data in the school system look like, and how close are we to getting there? Joe reflects on his rollercoaster year as a No 10 Innovation Fellow at the DfE, seeing the challenges and opportunities first hand.

He sets out a vision for harnessing data, AI, and tools like Robin to make MAT and school operations:

– Smarter, simpler, cheaper and faster
– More experimental and adaptable
– More fair and more fun.
2:00 pm - 2:15 pm

Breakout Room 2

Redefining resources: how a centralised approach led to greater equity in the digital classroom – a case study

Skolon’s vision is to ensure digital learning is accessible to all by providing the most efficient and smart way to access and use digital resources in the classroom.

Trusted by thousands of schools and offering access to 5500 digital tools, Skolon empowers educators to streamline teaching while enhancing pupil and guardian engagement.

Through innovative solutions like Single Sign-On (SSO), our responsibly developed AI tool Skolup, and flexible dashboards—alongside ready-made integrations with Google, Microsoft, and Apple—we’ve contributed to significant educational advancements in a short time.

We’re excited about the endless possibilities that lie ahead as we continue transforming education with smarter technology for all.

Francesca Russell-King

Business Development Manager - UK
Skolon

Skolon’s vision is to ensure digital learning is accessible to all by providing the most efficient and smart way to access and use digital resources in the classroom.

Trusted by thousands of schools and offering access to 5500 digital tools, Skolon empowers educators to streamline teaching while enhancing pupil and guardian engagement.

Through innovative solutions like Single Sign-On (SSO), our responsibly developed AI tool Skolup, and flexible dashboards—alongside ready-made integrations with Google, Microsoft, and Apple—we’ve contributed to significant educational advancements in a short time.

We’re excited about the endless possibilities that lie ahead as we continue transforming education with smarter technology for all.

Gabriel Wallén

Customer Director
Skolon

John Hayes

Director of Digital Strategy
Greenwood Academies Trust

The digital divide is a growing concern, and recent publications from the UK government highlight the urgent need for schools and Trusts to take meaningful steps towards digital inclusion. In this session, we’ll explore how one of our ...

The digital divide is a growing concern, and recent publications from the UK government highlight the urgent need for schools and Trusts to take meaningful steps towards digital inclusion. In this session, we’ll explore how one of our partners has redefined its approach to digital learning to close the gap and promote equity across its schools.

Through a practical case study, we’ll demonstrate how centralising digital resources and gaining better visibility into usage have played a key role in ensuring every pupil—regardless of background—has access to consistent, high-quality digital learning experiences.

This strategic shift has not only enhanced access but also streamlined administration, empowering both teachers and Trust leaders with the tools and data needed to deliver more effective, inclusive, and strategically aligned digital learning.

Attendees will leave with actionable insights and practical tips on how to strengthen their own digital classroom strategy—supporting equitable outcomes and inclusive learning across every school in their Trust.
1:40 pm - 1:55 pm

Breakout Room 3

Enabling Meaningful Maths Pedagogy & Raising Attainment

For the last 8 years, Magma Maths has revolutionised how Maths is taught in Sweden, the US, and now the UK as well. Today, over 70% of all Swedish schools, school districts in all 50 states in the US, and over 100 trusts in the UK use Magma.

Teachers have loved the service since Magma launched in the UK in the Autumn of 2023. Teachers, Maths Leads and Trust Leaders agree with Magma’s core pillars for Maths education:

• Creativity: Let pupils show their work – not just their answer
• Collaboration: Embrace discourse in the Maths classroom
• Data-driven teaching: Identify and address knowledge gaps when they appear, in real time

Daniel Hagstedt

Managing Director
Magma Maths

When the TIMSS 2023 results were revealed in December 2024, they illustrated that Sweden was the only country in the EU and OECD that showed an improvement in Maths results in both Year 5 and Year 9.

During the interactive session...

When the TIMSS 2023 results were revealed in December 2024, they illustrated that Sweden was the only country in the EU and OECD that showed an improvement in Maths results in both Year 5 and Year 9.

During the interactive session, we will discuss what good maths pedagogy looks like and delve into the ways in which over 80% of Swedish schools and school leaders worldwide are working with Magma to enable meaningful maths pedagogy and raise attainment.
2:00 pm - 2:15 pm

Breakout Room 3

Efficient Teaching, Empowered Learning: The Kami Solution

Kami is an instructional platform that integrates with popular LMS to offer accessible annotation, streamlined instruction and assessment, and greater insights. Kami saves teachers time on instruction and assessment, enhances online test prep, and provides key performance metrics to help teachers improve student learning outcomes.

Wendy Peskett

BDR
Kami

Join Kami to discover how to unlock significant time savings and cultivate inclusive classrooms across your entire trust. In this session, you can discover how Kami’s innovative AI Questions generate instant assessments, freeing up...

Join Kami to discover how to unlock significant time savings and cultivate inclusive classrooms across your entire trust. In this session, you can discover how Kami’s innovative AI Questions generate instant assessments, freeing up valuable teacher time. Explore our unique marking workflow designed for efficiency and streamlined feedback. Beyond time-saving, Kami’s comprehensive suite of accessibility tools ensures every student can fully participate and thrive. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn practical strategies and witness firsthand how Kami empowers educators to boost productivity and support diverse learning needs. Join our session to revolutionize teaching and learning within your trust.
3:50 pm - 4:20 pm

Focus Group 1

Contemporary adaptive teaching

Dr. Fiona Aubrey-Smith

Founder
PedTech

Allan McLean

Chief Education Officer
Connect Education Trust

Gulev Karayel

Director of IT and Communication
Connect Education Trust

Kathleen Cushnie

Deputy Headteacher
Connect Education Trust

Tracy Murray

Deputy Headteacher
Connect Education Trust

Discussing the implications of a contemporary lens on adaptive teaching – embedding data, dignity and equity in provision.
3:50 pm - 4:20 pm

Focus Group 2

Improving digital inclusion and outcomes in SEN

As Director for Digital Learning at LEO Academy Trust, Cheryl Shirley leads digital strategy and empowers nearly 5,000 pupils with future-ready computing skills. She provides expert support to leaders and teachers in implementing effective digital practices within the classroom. Her leadership extends to supporting other schools and Multi Academy Trusts in their digital journeys. Cheryl’s expertise has been recognised with a Pearson Silver Award for Digital Innovator of the Year in 2022. She is also a Fellow of the Chartered College of Teaching and holds a National Professional Qualification in Headship.

Cheryl Shirley

Director Digital Learning
LEO Academy Trust

Zaitoon Bukhari is the Director of Digital Learning at Achievement Through Collaboration MultiAcademy Trust, where she spearheads the integration of technology into the very heart of the learning experience. A passionate advocate for education, Zaitoon’s mission is to empower both teachers and students through the strategic use of digital tools.
Zaitoon is currently leading the charge in implementing the Trust’s Digital Strategy, a bold vision for a unified educational platform that fosters collaboration, eases staff burdens, and elevates pedagogical expertise. Her work transcends individual schools, weaving technology into the very fabric of the Trust, creating a seamless and interconnected learning environment.
Driven by a deep understanding of both education and technology, Zaitoon brings a wealth of experience to the table. With over 14 years in the classroom and 6 years of dedicated EdTech expertise, she is a Google Certified Trainer, Google Certified Innovator, and Google Certified Coach and the Silver Winner for Digital Innovator 2024 by the Pearson National Teaching Awards. This diverse skill set allows her to bridge the gap between theory and practice, ensuring the effective implementation of digital solutions that truly benefit students and teachers alike.
Zaitoon’s leadership extends beyond the confines of the Trust. She has also worked as the UK Training Lead for two of Google for Education PD Partners, where she shares her knowledge and expertise with educators across the country. This dedication to professional development underscores her commitment to building a strong and vibrant community of educators who leverage technology to unlock the full potential of learning.
Zaitoon is not simply a Director of Digital Learning; she is a visionary leader, a passionate educator, and a champion for the transformative power of technology in education. Her dedication to creating a future where technology empowers, not replaces, human connection is paving the way for a more collaborative, engaging, and effective learning experience for all.

Zaitoon Bukhari

Director of Digital Education
Achievement Through Collaboration Multi Academy Trust

Carolyn Hillarious

Director of Digital Learning
The Park Federation Academy Trust

Discussing digital technology to support teaching and customising resources tailored to diverse learning needs, which improve educational outcomes.
3:50 pm - 4:20 pm

Focus Group 3

Empowering students and staff to navigate the real-time AI revolution and prepare for ‘perma-change’

Richard Anderton is the Head of Digital Transformation for the Arthur Terry Learning Partnership (ATLP), a Multi-Academy Trust comprising 24 schools, 12,000 students, and 1,500 staff. He spearheads Learning Futures, ATLPâ€™s equitable 1:1 device initiative, leading the deployment and integration of over 12,500 iPads for students and staff. This initiative drives a vision of empowering learning and shaping futures through a pedagogy-first approach.

Richard also oversees the organisationâ€™s broader digital strategy. His work focuses on enhancing efficiencies, achieving cost savings, and pioneering ATLPâ€™s AI strategy to further innovation and progress

Richard Anderton

Digital Transformation Lead
The Arthur Terry Learning Partnership

Alex Zarifeh is the Arthur Terry Learning Partnership’s (ATLP), Trust Lead for Futures Readiness and Careers. Previously, Alex led a successful careers programme at The Arthur Terry School, described by Ofsted as, â€˜exceptionalâ€™, alongside being nominated as a Careers Enterprise Company, ‘Careers Champion’.
For the past two years, Alex has been immersed in researching the expanding impact of Artificial Intelligence upon the world of work and working backwards to determine what we need to be doing in education, to ensure our young people are prepared for unprecedented rates of change to work and society.
This work has led to ATLP’s, innovative Futures Readiness Programme described by CDI Board Member, John Walker as “by far the most significant and vital insight into the future world of work I have seen. It enables us to understand and act on, what we can do for young people to develop the skills they will need to navigate this exciting but also very different futureâ€.
In recent months, Alex has led keynote talks at the MAT Strategic Forum, Professor Deirdre Hughes’, â€˜AI in Actionâ€™ webinar series, the Future of Work National Conference, Warwick University, The Active Learning Trustâ€™s, ‘Inspiring Headteachers Conference’, a Careers Development Institue (CDI) Digital Byte, The Complete Careers Conference and at the WMCA/CEC’s joint, ‘Skills Now & Next’ Conference.

Alex Zarifeh

Trust Lead Futures Readiness & Careers
The Arthur Terry Learning Partnership

Richard and Alex will showcase ATLP’s Futures Readiness programme and how it supports students and staff to navigate constantly-evolving technologies and their societal impacts.
– CPD won’t cut it! It’s time to embrace ...

Richard and Alex will showcase ATLP’s Futures Readiness programme and how it supports students and staff to navigate constantly-evolving technologies and their societal impacts.
– CPD won’t cut it! It’s time to embrace continual learning, alongside our learners.
– Pivoting from the memory test. Why transformational technologies offer the chance to recast the ‘memory test’ and foster critical thinking and deep reasoning – genuine learning!
– When is early enough? Case study of KS1 learners wrestling with the implications of advanced AI