Tech Journey Insights Season 4 Episode 1 podcast graphic featuring hosts Beverly Clarke MBE and Rebecca Franks with special guest Hannah Wright.

From Classroom to CirKits: Hannah Wright on Innovation, Augmented Reality and EdTech Entrepreneurship

ByRebecca Franks

Season 4 • Episode 1
37 min
Published July 2026
Augmented Reality • EdTech • Entrepreneurship

Episode summary

Rebecca Franks and Beverly Clarke MBE are joined by Hannah Wright, founder of CirKits and former computer science teacher. Hannah shares how a challenge she experienced in the classroom inspired her to create CirKits, an innovative learning resource that helps learners explore computer hardware through physical components and augmented reality. She explains how the idea developed during her Master’s degree and why creating something tactile transformed the way learners engage with computer science.

The conversation explores Hannah’s journey from teaching into entrepreneurship, discussing product development, user testing, intellectual property and the importance of protecting new ideas through trademarks. Hannah also reflects on building confidence as a founder, finding mentors and learning the many skills needed to grow a business outside the classroom.

As the episode concludes, Rebecca, Beverly and Hannah discuss the value of listening to educators, designing products alongside users and embracing opportunities even when they feel outside your comfort zone. Throughout the conversation, Hannah demonstrates how solving a real classroom problem can grow into an award-winning education business.

Journey insights

  • The best innovations often begin by solving a real problem.
  • Testing ideas with teachers and learners leads to better products.
  • Protecting your intellectual property is an important part of building a business.
  • Transferable skills from teaching can open the door to entrepreneurship.
  • Building a strong network of mentors and supporters makes the entrepreneurial journey less daunting.

Is this episode for you?

This episode is for you if you are:

  • Teachers interested in educational innovation.
  • EdTech founders and entrepreneurs.
  • Computer science educators.
  • Anyone considering leaving teaching to start a business.
  • Professionals interested in augmented reality and learning technology.

About this episode

Rebecca Franks and Beverly Clarke MBE are joined by Hannah Wright, founder of CirKits, to discuss innovation, augmented reality and educational entrepreneurship. Hannah shares how her experience as a computer science teacher inspired an award-winning product that helps learners understand computer hardware through hands-on exploration. Together they discuss product design, trademarks, user feedback and the realities of building an education business.

About the speakers

Hannah Wright

Hannah Wright is the founder of CirKits and a former computer science teacher. Passionate about hands-on learning, she created CirKits to help learners explore the inside of a computer using physical components and augmented reality. Her innovative approach to computing education has earned recognition for making complex concepts more engaging and accessible.

Rebecca Franks

Rebecca Franks is an award-winning technology educator, entrepreneur and Co-founder of Flip Computing. With more than 20 years of experience in education, she has authored national computing curricula, developed AI education programmes and speaks internationally about technology, inclusion and innovation. Rebecca is passionate about helping people build confidence, develop digital skills and discover rewarding careers in technology.

Beverly Clarke MBE

Beverly Clarke MBE is a technology leader, educator, coach and author with over 20 years of experience in education and digital skills. She is the author of the Ava and Chip children’s book series and is passionate about digital inclusion, artificial intelligence, coaching and empowering people to achieve their potential. Beverly was awarded an MBE for services to computing and digital education.

Together, Rebecca and Beverly share honest conversations about technology, careers, entrepreneurship and the lessons they are learning along the way.

Resources mentioned

  • CirKits
  • Augmented reality
  • Computer science education
  • Master’s degree in Graphic Design
  • Trademark registration
  • Mentoring and business networks

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