When visiting Peareswood Primary School, part of esteemed Woodland Academy Trust, we met up with Julie Carson, Director of Education and Daniel Davies, Assistant Head Teacher for Digital Development and asked them some questions on why they chose to partner up with Magma Maths. Read the full interview here.
What is your philosophy on pedagogy at Woodland Academy Trust?
At Woodland Academy Trust, our pedagogy is centred on inclusivity, empowerment, and innovation, ensuring every child can succeed. Guided by the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), we remove barriers to education by offering flexible and adaptive teaching methods that meet diverse needs. We prioritise pupil agency, encouraging children to take ownership of their learning through choice, reflection, and independence. Engaging and creative approaches inspire curiosity and critical thinking, while integrated technology enhances accessibility and personalisation. Our evidence-based practices and commitment to teacher empowerment ensure high-quality learning experiences, fostering a supportive environment where every pupil can thrive.
What did you see in Magma Maths that caught your eye and aligned with your pedagogical philosophy at Woodland Academy Trust?
What caught our eye in Magma Maths was its ability to align with our pedagogical philosophy by supporting inclusivity, accessibility, and pupil agency. Its flexibility allows for personalised learning, removing barriers for diverse learners. The platform’s engaging and interactive design fosters curiosity and critical thinking, while its analytics provide valuable insights to inform evidence-based teaching and rapid responses.
How do you see AI and technology fitting into the future of education?
AI and technology will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of education by enhancing learning experiences, supporting inclusivity, and preparing pupils for an increasingly digital world. Technology also offers opportunities to remove barriers to education, making learning more accessible and engaging through adaptive platforms and assistive tools.
Beyond the classroom, AI can streamline administrative processes, giving teachers more time to focus on high-quality pedagogy and meaningful interactions with pupils. It also provides valuable data insights, enabling educators to make informed decisions and adapt teaching strategies to improve outcomes. Looking ahead, AI and technology will complement the human aspects of teaching while equipping pupils with the skills needed to thrive in the future.
How does Magma Maths align with your vision of developing education going forward?
Magma Math aligns with our forward-thinking vision of education by embracing innovation and equipping pupils with the skills they will need in an ever-evolving world. Its focus on problem-solving and critical thinking prepares learners to tackle complex challenges with confidence, fostering resilience and adaptability. By leveraging technology to personalise learning and remove barriers, Magma Math supports a more inclusive, future-ready education system where every child can thrive. Furthermore, its data-driven insights empower teachers to continually refine their practice, ensuring teaching evolves in line with pupils’ needs and technological advancements. Magma Math positions us to create a dynamic, forward-looking environment where technology and pedagogy work together to inspire lifelong learning.
How important do you believe technology is in the future of education in Woodland Academy trust?
Technology is vital to the future of education at Woodland Academy Trust, serving as both a tool for innovation and a means to support our core values. As we prepare pupils for an increasingly digital world, technology enhances learning by offering the personalised, adaptive experiences that cater to individual needs while removing barriers to access. It enables our educators to implement data-informed teaching practices, fostering continuous improvement and ensuring every child reaches their potential.
Moreover, technology equips pupils with essential digital skills, such as critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity, that are fundamental for future success. At Woodland Academy Trust, we see technology not as a replacement for traditional teaching but as an enabler of deeper, more meaningful learning experiences. By embedding technology thoughtfully into our pedagogy, we aim to create an education system that is future-focused, inclusive, and fully prepared to embrace the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow.