S04 – E02 with Lauren Thorpe

Lauren is the Chief Transformation Officer at United Learning, the largest trust in England. She leads the trust’s work on digital strategy, data and insights, curriculum and assessment, as well as the programme of transformation projects across the organisation. 

Prior to this, Lauren was the Director of Standards & Performance and Director of Strategy at Ark Schools and was a research director for a thinktank in Westminster. She sat on the DfE Ed Tech Advisory Board and Workload Review Panel and is a serving Ofsted Inspector. During the academic year 2024-25, Lauren is Chair of the CST Data and Insights Professional Community.

Ever wonder how childhood curiosity can shape a career in educational leadership? In this episode, Lauren shares her unique path from tinkering with toys under the guidance of her engineer father to spearheading transformative initiatives in schools. Her story is a testament to how a relentless curiosity and love for problem-solving can lead to a career focused on balancing efficiency with emotional intelligence, ultimately creating a more connected educational environment.

Lauren and Nick engage in a thought-provoking discussion on navigating the complex landscape of educational technology with integrity. We delve into the challenges of balancing immediate needs with long-term objectives and managing the expectations of diverse stakeholders. In a world increasingly dominated by technological solutions, we question the necessity of tech-driven approaches, especially in the aftermath of COVID-19. Lauren provides insight into how educators can thoughtfully choose between tech integration or tech-free environments, ensuring alignment with their vision and purpose.

The conversation takes a reflective turn as we explore the evolution of leadership philosophies in education, focusing on empowerment and collaboration. Lauren describes moving from prescriptive management styles to creating spaces where team members can innovate and own their projects. We highlight the importance of teamwork, diverse perspectives, and a shared vision in developing sustainable educational solutions. By adapting problem-solving methods to different organisational dynamics, Lauren exemplifies a mission-driven leadership style that aims to improve processes and enhance opportunities within the sector.

Let us know what you think of this episode - drop us a message and connect via LinkedIn.