BESA Director General Caroline Wright gives Bett Show 2025 opening address

Thank you, Secretary of State. In recent years there have been ‘more than a few’ Secretaries of Education, and a good number of them have come to BETT to speak of their vision for educational technology.

Too often, unfortunately, they have put their focus on the possibilities that the ‘shiniest and newest’ technology applications hold for the education sector – but then fall short in providing schools with the practical tools or funding to be able to afford it.

So, it is genuinely refreshing to hear your passionate commitment to improving education for ALL groups of students.  You speak about supporting the education workforce – with a pragmatic, rather than polemic, approach and, I am sure I speak on behalf of everyone here this morning, in welcoming the Government’s decision to make Education one of the Government’s key missions.

The organisation I represent, the British Education Suppliers Association is already working with the DfE on the issues you have flagged today including the vitally important AI guidance and digital and technology standards for schools, and the education data Content Store amongst others.

We are also enjoying the fresh perspective that Export Minister Gareth Thomas is bringing to the Government’s focus on education exports and the continued commitment of International Education Champion Sir Steve Smith to supporting our successful EdTech education exporters and I look forward to meeting them, alongside the many visiting International delegations, here at BETT this week.

Finally, a word for everyone visiting Bett today. 40 years ago BESA organised the very first BETT show. Our commitment to improving usage and understanding of educational technology has not diminished – and with the stewardship of Hyve, the world-leading events and exhibition organisers, we have been able to build on that success year-on-year so that today you are spoilt for choice with 100’s of fantastic exhibitors, as well as an amazing range of inspirational speakers and CPD opportunities.

Who knows what wonders will be on display at BETT in another 40 years, but you can rest assured that the BESA kitemark displayed on the BESA member stands in the exhibition hall here today is a sign of their commitment to quality assurance and adherence to an industry code of conduct. They know the rapid pace of change in technology can feel bewildering so they are here to help go hand in hand with you to help you and your school navigate the ever-increasing complexities of the EdTech world.

Thank you and enjoy BETT 2025!