Spotlight on the UK Edtech Ecosystem

BETT UK 2023, an annual event that showcases the latest advancements and innovations in the realm of educational technology, recently concluded its latest edition, leaving educators, innovators, and industry leaders inspired and eager to shape the future of education. With its commitment to showcasing transformative solutions and fostering collaboration, BETT UK brought together thousands of attendees from around the world to explore the intersection of education and technology. From groundbreaking product launches to thought-provoking discussions, the conference served as a vibrant hub of ideas, highlighting the latest trends and major breakthroughs in educational technology. 

The highlights and key trend takeaways from this year’s event can be summarised into three themes, namely: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Personalized Learning and Immersive Technologies (AR/VR). As the field of education continues to evolve, conversations around the integration and impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and immersive technologies continue to be on the front burner. This powerful combination holds the potential to revolutionise the way students learn, engage and interact with educational content. AI-powered adaptive learning systems can personalise instruction based on the individual student’s strengths and weaknesses, ensuring a tailored and effective learning experience, while immersive technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) offer captivating and interactive environments that bring abstract concepts to life, fostering deeper understanding and retention. The convergence of AI and immersive technologies presents a compelling opportunity to reshape the future of education.

In this week’s snapshot, we explore these technology areas, offering a glimpse into the startups within the London Edtech ecosystem building transformative innovations across these themes.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Startups in London

Multiverse

Multiverse is a tech startup that seeks to provide an alternative to university training. Founded by Euan Blair (son of former UK PM Tony Blair), Multiverse operates an online recruitment board that uses AI technology to link non-graduate apprentices with employers. Apprentices are provided with tuition-based training that emphasises tech-based positions demanding digital skills, such as software engineering, digital marketing and data analysis.

Fuse Universal

Fuse is a UK-based startup that has developed educational technology software that enables employees to exchange knowledge within their workplace. Founded in 2008, the company’s platform utilises design tools, machine learning and artificial intelligence to facilitate learning among employees. Additionally, Fuse supports companies in developing internal instructional videos.

Personalised Learning Startups in London

Century Tech 

Century  Tech is a London-based AI edtech startup which builds AI technologies to improve education and transform learning in schools, colleges and universities. Founded by barrister-turned-entrepreneur Priya Lakhani OBE in 2015, Century  uses AI (ML & deep learning), neuroscience and learning science to provide each student with an education that dynamically adapts to their individual needs, while empowering teachers to perform even better as educators.

Skiller Whale 

Skiller Whale is an online live training platform that offers a combination of skills assessment and expert-led classes to provide flexibility and integration into the work schedules of technology teams. Founded in 2018 by Hywel Carver co-founder and former CTO of BridgeU, one of Europe’s top career guidance platforms, Skiller Whale offers tech training in courses including Python, Go, Javascript, Typescript, React, React Native and PostgreSQL.

Immersive Technology (AR/VR) Startups in London

MEL Science

MEL Science is a London-based science education platform that aims to bring science to life through educational kits, combining hands-on experiments with interactive virtual reality (VR) simulations and live lessons – created to help students learn in intuitive, engaging ways. Its products are designed for children, ages 5 to 14, and can be used either by schools or as an at-home teaching aid.