Novatia consultant Steve Warburton gives us the lowdown on BETT 2025...
BETT remains an eclectic event… though I didn’t expect to see Hello Fresh exhibiting!!! The AI tag was everywhere – from the largest to the smallest exhibitors. STEM activities, hardware and software were also prominent … it wouldn’t be BETT without a few robots though it was noteworthy that the DELL chocolate robot has finally been retired!
The AI focus seems to have triggered even more representation from companies in Asia, not just in the screens/LMS/robots sales channels.
I felt that international representation had moved towards learning applications this year rather than large ‘ego’ stands or hardware-focused displays (or perhaps I walked down the wrong aisle… always a BETT danger!
BETT is still a bit of a school reunion for me… past colleagues, employers, customers, Linkedin connections – it gives an opportunity to meet with them all. My past colleagues from the Podar Education Network were there again and thanks to Dr Ruchi Goyal – for taking the selfie! Rather a different environment to the Surat Railway Station in Gujarat where we took our last shot!
I was at BETT on Thursday and it was busy in the morning, the ‘start-up’ / SEND areas seeming particularly active … lots of small stands, narrow walkways. Most of my Novatia colleagues were there – our broad interest in edtech meant we were all kept busy talking with providers, customers, partners and exploring new ideas.
Much has been said about the fluctuating size / make-up of BETT. The organisers had attempted to separate – artificially in some cases – hardware from applications. Personally I found this helpful – but edtech in schools is a bit more nuanced than that simple dichotomy… as witnessed by the SEND village.
We all have different ways to ‘do’ BETT. Some just visit well-known watering holes (not just Coata) – satisfaction is guaranteed and feet not as sore. The disciplined have their list and stick to it and have plotted their route beforehand. Others go into ‘Search and Rescue’ mode – working their way through the Search (Stall) grid. I try and ‘prospect’ for gold at BETT. This year I had a great conversation with the folks from the British Assistive Technology Association. There is no substitute for expertise and the minutes spent with them were well worth it.
The teacher hordes were gathered around 4 stands: Microsoft, Google, Canva and Adobe Express. This was 100% understandable as all four were demonstrating how to make the best use of their ubiquitous and extremely capable products. My highlight – because I appreciate his commitment to share quick simple explanations of Microsoft features – was Mike Tholfsen… I’d say ‘standing room only’ but BETT is all about standing!!!
