Season 2

In the first episode of this season, I discuss the impact of COVID-19 on education with Dom Jones, the Head of Classics at KES. We explore the rise of remote learning and the potential roles of AI in the classroom. Each podcast episode is paired with an in-depth blog post, offering further insight into our discussions. Click here to join us on this informative journey through the complex intersections of education and technology.

In Episode 2 of JF Podcast, Season 2, Tim Woolley and I tackle plagiarism's impact on education. We explore students' dependence on tools like Google Translate, the misuse of AI in education, and the value of experiencing failure. Paired with each podcast is a detailed blog post providing a comprehensive transcript and key points of discussion. Join us in this essential conversation about fostering original thinking and learning.

Keith Phillips recounts his 35-year tenure at KE (King Edward's), touching on the school's evolution, his varied roles, and memorable sports tours. The is inevitably lots about cycling too. His passion for cycling and views on climate change's impact on cycling and the wine trade form the crux of our discussion.

In this special Spanish episode, I, who have been learning Spanish for just over a year, have a conversation with Cristina from Seville, who teaches Spanish. This episode is entirely in Spanish, which takes me well out of my comfort zone. It's definitely a first for The J Fennell Podcast! We discuss language learning strategies, explore the significance of Spanish culture, and discuss the role of AI in language learning. Make sure to check out the transcript in Spanish and an English translation of it. There is also paper artwork showcasing all 17 regions of Spain at the end. I used leonardo.ai to create the it, but it took far longer than expected to capture the vibe of each region and incorporate key elements. Whether you're a Spanish speaker or not, there's plenty to enjoy as we celebrate Spain!

In this episode, recorded at the British Oak in Stirchley, I am joined by Ben Weaver, a magician with a passion for hobbies. We explore whether hobbies are socially acceptable obsessions and discuss the importance of encouraging them in schools. Ben shares insights into the world of magic, and we ponder the human attributes that will set future generations apart in an AI-dominated landscape. The episode also touches upon the addictive nature of social media and loot box games. It concludes with a spellbinding magic trick from Ben.

This episode is both a videocast and a podcast. A J Fennell podcast first!

Can creativity be taught? Join James Ramsay, Head of Art at KE, for a thought-provoking discussion on the nature of creativity in art and its wider implications. Artwork, representing all the pieces James discusses, accompanies this podcast to provide a visual narrative.

James and I get stuck into the nitty-gritty of climate change in our chat, exploring what the future might hold and how we can make a difference. To complement the podcast, I've designed an game called 'Emission Impossible'. This is your chance to take the reins of a school and work towards slashing its carbon emissions and making it totally sustainable and green. Although it sounds like something from The Apprentice, trust me, this game is awesome.