From Fashion to EdTech: Philippa Wraithmell's Journey Through Education
Introduction: In this episode, we explore the dynamic journey of Philippa Wraithmell, whose career transition from the fashion industry to becoming a leader in educational technology epitomises adaptability and visionary leadership. This account, drawn from our episode of the International Classroom podcast, delves into how Philippa has shaped digital learning landscapes and supported fellow educators, particularly women in EdTech.
Fashion Roots and a Pivot to Education: Philippa began her career aspiring to be a buyer in the fashion industry, working with global teams for Claire's Accessories. The economic downturn prompted her to reevaluate her career trajectory, leading her to discover a new passion: teaching fashion in schools. This revelation steered her towards earning qualifications in design technology, where she quickly excelled and assumed leadership roles.
A New Chapter in the Middle East: Seeking broader horizons amid socio-political shifts in the UK, Philippa and her family relocated to Abu Dhabi. Here, she transitioned from teaching design technology to computing, embracing the challenge with a STEAM-focused approach that integrated various subjects. Her adaptability in these roles showcased her ability to transcend traditional subject boundaries, enhancing her students' learning experiences.
Digital Transformation Expertise: Philippa's deep involvement in digital education led to her writing a pivotal book aimed at helping educators implement effective digital strategies in schools. Her work emphasises the need for a holistic view of the school ecosystem—encompassing governance, pedagogy, and infrastructure—to successfully integrate technology. This Digital Ecosystem has become an essential resource for schools navigating the complexities of digital transformation.
Advocacy for Women in EdTech: As a woman in a male-dominated field, Philippa co-founded WiEdu to support and empower female educators in the Middle East. This initiative highlights the importance of equity and creating safe spaces for women to share experiences and challenges, promoting a more inclusive educational technology environment.
Founding Edruption: With her extensive experience, Philippa founded Edruption, focusing on empowering schools globally to adopt sustainable and impactful digital strategies. She advocates for moving away from sporadic tech upgrades to developing long-term, holistic strategies that fundamentally enhance teaching and learning. Her approach not only addresses immediate technological needs but also fosters digital wellbeing and prepares schools to tackle future challenges like AI integration.
Professional Growth and Networking: Throughout her career, Philippa has emphasized the importance of professional development and networking. Her journey illustrates the power of building connections and learning continuously, traits that have significantly contributed to her success and influence in the educational sector.
Conclusion: Philippa Wraithmell's story is a testament to the transformative power of embracing change and leveraging one's skills in new and impactful ways. For educators and school leaders looking to navigate the evolving landscape of educational technology, Philippa’s insights provide both inspiration and practical guidance. Her dedication to fostering equitable, innovative educational environments continues to influence the global education community, making her journey a beacon for future educational pioneers.
