#358: Is VAT On Private Schools Ruining UK Education? Ana Boulter's Fight from the Heart On UK Education

This week’s guest is Ana Boulter, an advocate for children and their education who uses her everyday life, often quite literally from the kitchen sink, to challenge the status quo. With a sharp eye on UK politics and a fierce commitment to children’s rights, she speaks up for all families, especially those navigating neurodiversity, mental health struggles, and the complexities of the education system. Whether she’s questioning baffling government decisions, sharing honest parenting moments, or amplifying autistic and neurodivergent voices, Ana blends lived experience with fearless commentary In this episode, we explore Ana’s personal journey from CBBC presenter to outspoken campaigner, dive into the current challenges within the UK education system and unpack the political and emotional realities facing families today. We focus on issues such as state vs private education, the impact of policy decisions like VAT on school fees, and the relevance of the national curriculum in a changing world. Highlighting the importance of giving children a voice, we discuss how individuals can drive change from the ground up and why every child deserves an education system that truly meets their needs.   9:27 – Bully or bullied? “I wanted to be the fixer”. 12:30 – Relationships and trauma—Ana as a deep processor 17:12 – The education system and Ana’s core beliefs 29:30 – Vocational vs academic: What’s more valuable today? 34:25 – Education and AI 44:42 – State education and learning disabilities 59:30 – Schools, infrastructure, and contributing to society 1:09:20 – How can we make a change? 1:20:31 – The right to choose as a citizen   Show Sponsors:   AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers     Allsopp & Allsopp: Redefining real estate, through cutting-edge technology and setting new standards for seamless, elevated customer experience. Keep moving with Allsopp & Allsopp. https://bit.ly/Allsopp-and-Allsopp    Socials:   Follow Spencer Lodge on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en  https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge  https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/  https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV  https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/    Follow Ana Boulter on Social Media https://www.youtube.com/@anaboulterTV https://x.com/anaboultertv https://www.tiktok.com/anaboultertv  

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Formerly the Unscripted Podcast with Spencer Lodge Join Spencer Lodge as he connects with the most fascinating personalities in Dubai. A city that rose from the desert sands to become one of the most ambitious, innovative and inspiring places on Earth. Behind its glittering skyline are people with stories just as extraordinary - pioneers, dreamers and doers who dared to turn bold visions into reality. Made in Dubai is where those stories are told. Hosted by Spencer Lodge, each episode is a front-row seat to conversations with the people shaping the UAE’s future — from business leaders and record-breakers to cultural icons and creative disruptors. But this isn’t just about their success. It’s about the journey - the risks they took, the challenges they faced and the moments that defined them. It’s about the unique magic of Dubai: a place where ambition meets opportunity, where cultures from around the world collide to create something truly special and where anything feels possible. Whether you’re an entrepreneur searching for your next big move, someone curious about life in the UAE or simply in need of inspiration, Made in Dubai is your invitation to step inside this vibrant city and meet the people who make it remarkable. If it was made in Dubai, you’ll hear it here.