Skip to main content

29 January 2025

Reflecting on an Inspiring Three Days at BETT 2025

Computing at  School profile image
Written by

Computing at School

Last week, we had the privilege of attending BETT in London for all three days, and what an event it was! From engaging talks and competitions to networking and insightful discussions, it was an inspiring and action-packed few days. Here’s a look back at some of our highlights.

Wednesday – A Day of Inspiration and Judging Creativity

We kicked off our BETT experience on Wednesday afternoon by exploring the exhibition stands and listening to some truly inspirational speakers. It was a fantastic opportunity to see the latest innovations in education technology and to hear from those shaping the future of learning.

One of the most exciting moments of the day was Becci (our secondary specialist) stepping into the role of a judge for the Design 4 SDGs Challenge. This incredible initiative saw students working in groups to develop ideas that support one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The students showcased their creativity and commitment, with projects ranging from assembly talks and posters to full-scale events and even podcasts. It was a tough competition, with six winning teams selected from a mix of primary and secondary schools. The students had the daunting but exhilarating experience of presenting their ideas on the BETT main stage, sharing how they had engaged their communities in their projects. The standard of entries was exceptional, making the judging process extremely difficult – a testament to the amazing work students and their teachers are doing!

Wednesday Evening – The BETT Awards

As the sun set, we swapped the exhibition hall for the glitz and glamour of the BETT Awards. With over 600 attendees, the evening was filled with celebration, networking, and even a little magic – quite literally – thanks to the entertainment provided by magician Ben Hanlin. We were lucky enough to share a table with some of our fantastic partners and supporters, making it an evening to remember. Although we didn’t take home a win in our category, we were incredibly proud to be shortlisted and thrilled to celebrate with all the deserving winners. Huge congratulations to those who triumphed on the night!

 

Thursday – CAS Connections and TeachMeet Takeaways

Thursday was all about community. We spent the day catching up with CAS (Computing at School) members, discussing their experiences and the latest developments in computing education. These conversations are invaluable, giving us insight into what’s working well in classrooms and what support teachers need moving forward.

The day culminated in the TeachMeet on Thursday evening, where Becci had the opportunity to share our AI resources and support for teachers. TeachMeets are a brilliant platform for educators to share ideas and best practices, with presentations as short as two minutes. Whether you’re presenting or simply listening, they’re a fantastic way to get inspired by the work happening in schools across the country.

After the TeachMeet, we continued the evening with a group of CAS members at Boom Battle Bar, where we enjoyed food, drinks, and some friendly competition. It was a perfect way to unwind and strengthen connections with fellow educators in a relaxed setting.

 

Friday – Future Plans and Looking Ahead to BETT 2026

Our final day at BETT was another whirlwind of discussions and discoveries. We spent time speaking with more CAS members and engaging in productive meetings with companies interested in supporting the CAS Conference. Our goal for this year’s conference is to make it even bigger and better than last year, and these conversations were a crucial step towards achieving that vision.

Beyond the scheduled meetings, we took the opportunity to explore what teachers are currently working on and to learn about the latest edtech solutions available. It was fascinating to see the range of innovative tools and resources designed to support teaching and learning.

Wrapping Up – A Time to Reflect and Recharge

BETT 2025 was a truly inspiring and valuable experience. Over three days, we reconnected with colleagues, met new collaborators, and gained fresh insights into the evolving landscape of education technology. Now, it’s time to reflect on everything we’ve learned, put our new ideas into action, and – most importantly – start preparing for BETT 2026!

A huge thank you to everyone who made this event so special – from the organisers and speakers to the educators, students, and companies who shared their knowledge and passion. We can’t wait to see what the next year holds and look forward to continuing these important conversations in the months ahead.

See you at BETT 2026!