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IncludEd 2025 promises high quality professional development aimed at building inclusive schools and improving outcomes for ALL students.

If you’re looking for a blend of research, practical expertise, and lived experience, while networking with a like-minded community of practitioners, you’ve come to the right place.

You can see details of this year’s IncludEd 2025 sessions and speakers below.

For more information about IncludEd, or if you don’t yet have a ticket, you can buy one HERE
Find out more about The Difference HERE

We look forward to seeing you on January 11th!
or to register for this event.

Add sessions to your personal schedule to register your attendance (Check-In).

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Saturday, January 11
 

9:00am GMT

Refreshments, Exhibition Viewing and Networking
Saturday January 11, 2025 9:00am - 9:45am GMT
Saturday January 11, 2025 9:00am - 9:45am GMT
Jeffrey Hall Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

10:00am GMT

Conference Opening
Saturday January 11, 2025 10:00am - 11:15am GMT
Conference welcome will include housekeeping, keynote input from Kiran Gill (CEO & Founder, The Difference), and Pepe Di'Iasio (General Secretary, ASCL).

Laura Katan, Deputy Headteacher of Haringey Learning Partnership will be joined by Amario, who recently completed Year 11 at the school.
Speakers
avatar for Amario

Amario

Former Pupil, Haringey Learning Partnership
Amario is a former pupil at Haringey Learning Partnership, who left year 11 this September having achieved 8 GCSEs. Amario is now studying electrical engineering at a local college.
avatar for Kiran Gill

Kiran Gill

CEO, The Difference
Kiran began her career in inner-city London, as an English teacher in schools serving the most deprived postcodes in the country. After five years on the frontline, Kiran left to work in education policy, searching for solutions to the rising number of children who fall through the... Read More →
avatar for Laura Katan

Laura Katan

Deputy Headteacher, Haringey Learning Partnership
Laura trained to teach at a school in London and worked as Second in Charge in the Maths department. Laura left teaching in 2020 to complete her Masters in psychoanalytical observations of young people at the Tavistock and Portman NHS Trust Foundation. After completing The Difference... Read More →
avatar for Pepe Di'Iasio

Pepe Di'Iasio

General Secretary, Association of School and College Leaders
Pepe Di'lasio was most recently Headteacher at Wales High School, a 11-19 High school in Rotherham from September 2012 to March 2024.Pepe began his teaching career in Doncaster before moving as Deputy Headteacher to an 11-19 outstanding school in Sheffield. Pepe has also worked as... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 10:00am - 11:15am GMT
Logan Hall Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

11:25am GMT

From full PRU to reintegration: making change in an AP-ecosystem
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:25am - 12:05pm GMT
Reintegration is the often-overlooked other side of the exclusion coin—a critical process that allows pupils to transition back from Alternative Provision (AP) to mainstream education or school life after extended periods.

This session dives deep into what it takes to make reintegration successful, offering a blend of personal stories, real-world challenges, and practical strategies.

Led by a panel of education and system leaders, including experts from St Helens and Haringey, we’ll explore how a ecosystem approach—where mainstream schools, AP settings, and children's services collaborate—can unlock better outcomes for pupils.

Discover why reintegration is both challenging and essential. With over 48,000 pupils in AP, many struggle to transition back, often citing a lack of belonging or support. Yet, success stories are emerging, offering hope and actionable insights.
Whether you’re a leader, practitioner, or policymaker, join us for an inspiring session that highlights the power of collective action in reshaping the reintegration narrative.

Speakers
avatar for Gerry Robinson

Gerry Robinson

Executive Headteacher, Haringey Learning Partnership
Gerry Robinson serves as the Executive Headteacher of Haringey Learning Partnership, overseeing the alternative provision schools and services in Haringey. With four years in her current role and a previous position as Headteacher at a mainstream secondary school, Gerry draws from... Read More →
avatar for Daniel Cain-Reed

Daniel Cain-Reed

Assistant Headteacher and SENDco, Highgate Wood School
Daniel is an Assistant Headteacher & SENCo at Highgate Wood School and a SENDCo Support Partner at Haringey Education Partnership. Daniel completed the Difference Leader’s Programme in 2023, working at Haringey Learning Partnership, where he led on SEND, attendance, Respite provision... Read More →
avatar for Mike Power

Mike Power

Headteacher, St Helens Alternative Provision Service
Mike Power is the Headteacher of St Helens Alternative Provision Service, where he is dedicated to creating inclusive educational opportunities. Alongside his leadership role, he is pursuing a doctorate at the University of Chester, focusing on how government policies impact disadvantaged... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:25am - 12:05pm GMT
C3.09 Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

11:25am GMT

How do we set strategy to see suspension & absence fall MAT-wide?
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:25am - 12:05pm GMT
We know that suspensions and absences disrupt learning and disproportionately affect the most vulnerable pupils.

This session brings together Wesley Davies, CEO of the Two Counties Trust, and Andy Burns, Director of Education at Brooke Weston Trust, to share strategies that drive system-wide improvements.

Hosted by Adam Alagiah-Glomseth, Investment Director at Impetus, the discussion will explore how Multi-Academy Trusts (MATs) can create cohesive approaches to reduce exclusions and improve attendance across schools. Learn how data, leadership, and collaboration can transform outcomes for pupils and build more inclusive education systems.

Join us as we rethink how MATs tackle these critical challenges at scale.

Speakers
avatar for Wesley Davies

Wesley Davies

CEO, The Two Counties Trust
Wesley is the Chief Executive of The Two Counties Trust in Nottinghamshire. The Trust serves 11,000 students and is the employer of choice for 1500 staff members. Since taking up the post in 2021, Wesley has created a compelling vision for the Trust and is focused on 'enhancing life... Read More →
avatar for Adam Alagiah-Glomseth

Adam Alagiah-Glomseth

Investment Director, Impetus
Adam works with Impetus partner organisations in the school exclusions and youth employment domains. Prior to Impetus Adam ran a tutoring charity supporting young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, and was a management consultant with BCG.
avatar for Andy Burns

Andy Burns

Director of Education, Brooke Weston Trust
After graduating from Warwick University with a mathematics degree, Andy moved to Birmingham and started his career as a teacher. Andy worked at several different schools that were all in challenging circumstances. Andy discovered his passion for making a difference in the community... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:25am - 12:05pm GMT
Logan Hall Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

11:25am GMT

Internal Alternative Provision - Creating a culture of connection not conflict
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:25am - 12:05pm GMT
This session is aimed at anyone in Education wanting to get to grips with the practical side of Relational Practice. Alongside this we will spend some time looking at how Strategic Development of IAP, needs to involve way more than a Caretakers house, less children and more staff. Alternative being the key word... we will also look at the importance of Culture in general, and ways to create a culture of connection not conflict.
Speakers
avatar for Jacob Lawton

Jacob Lawton

Strategic Lead, Positive Regard/Wellspring Trust
Jacob started out his career in a mainstream primary in a deprived area of Barnsley before joining Wellspring’s very first SEMH school. He takes his 15 years experience working within the special and alternative sector, supporting pupils seen as the most challenging and uses this... Read More →
avatar for Jim Butterwood

Jim Butterwood

Consultant, Positive Regard/Wellspring Trust
Jim started his journey in further education supporting young people who required extra support to access college. Jim joined Wellspring during the Trust’s infancy and spent several years developing and leading the Outdoor Education offer across an Alternative Provision and special... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:25am - 12:05pm GMT
Drama Hall Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

11:25am GMT

Nurturing Belonging
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:25am - 12:05pm GMT
This session looks at how belonging can be affected by how we teach young people, and how marginalisation and exclusion are the consequences. It explores the social and psychological impact of narrowing knowledge in the curriculum and proposes solutions.
Speakers
avatar for Bennie Kara

Bennie Kara

Co-Founder, Diverse Educators
Bennie Kara is a former Deputy Headteacher, who now specialises in training on curriculum, DEI and teaching and learning. She co-founded Diverse Educators during her Deputy Headship at a start-up school in Oxfordshire. She is the author of A Little Guide for Teachers: Diversity in... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:25am - 12:05pm GMT
Elvin Hall Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

11:25am GMT

Practical ways to have a positive impact on behaviour and inclusion
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:25am - 12:05pm GMT
How can schools create environments where every pupil feels included and behaviour thrives? In this session, Imogen Overton, a former Difference Leader and now Lead Practitioner (City Academy), teams up with Nicole Rodden, CEO & Founder of Life Lessons, to share actionable strategies for fostering positive behaviour and inclusion. Drawing on their expertise in education leadership and personal development, they’ll explore practical approaches that empower staff, support pupils, and build inclusive cultures.
Whether you’re tackling persistent behaviour challenges or aiming to strengthen inclusion, this session offers insightful, evidence-based tools to drive meaningful change in your school or trust.

Speakers
avatar for Nicole Rodden

Nicole Rodden

Co-Ceo & Co-Founder, Life Lessons
Nicole Rodden (MA, BA, PGCE) is a former Philosophy and PSHE teacher. Nicole co-founded the award-winning organisation Life Lessons in order to help pupils to make healthy choices and thrive. They do this by supporting teachers to create empathic school cultures through delivering... Read More →
avatar for Imogen Overton

Imogen Overton

The City Academy
Imogen is a lead practitioner and former Difference Leader.
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:25am - 12:05pm GMT
C3.15 Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

11:25am GMT

Racial literacy as a route to understanding behaviour
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:25am - 12:05pm GMT
This session is designed to equip senior leaders and educators with the knowledge and tools to understand student behaviour through the lens of racial inclusion. By exploring the intersection of race, bias and behavioural outcomes, participants will gain insights into how race and ethnicity can positively or negatively shape interactions within the school environment.

You'll gain insights into Hemisphere's cutting-edge research on how neuroscience and societal norms impact students' experiences and outcomes, with a particular focus on Black and South Asian heritage pupils. Participants will also hear from Elen Roberts, Executive Headteacher at Heartlands High School, who will share real life examples into how embedding racial literacy into staff training has improved behaviour, student-staff relationships, and improved academic outcomes.

Following the session, you will:

- Understand how racial identity, bias, and societal norms shape student behaviour and responses.

- Learn strategies for fostering racially inclusive environments that support positive behavioural outcomes.

- Gain practical tools for building racial literacy across your school community.

- Leave empowered to initiate meaningful, systemic change in behaviour management and student wellbeing.

www.hemisphereeducation.com
Speakers
avatar for Yasmina Koné

Yasmina Koné

Deputy Lead, Hemisphere Education
Yasmina is Deputy Lead of Hemisphere Education, an innovative brain-training platform disrupting bias and improving racial literacy in schools. She's driving the adoption of Hemisphere across the UK, building partnerships with leading schools, education partnerships and MATs to change... Read More →
avatar for Elen Roberts

Elen Roberts

Executive Headteacher, Heartlands School
Teaching in London schools since 2002 Elen started her career as an English teacher quickly progressing to middle and then senior leadership she became a Headteacher in 2016. Elen has secured excellent progress in a number of secondary schools. She has worked strategically to close... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:25am - 12:05pm GMT
C3.13 Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

11:25am GMT

Relational Inclusion - creating a culture of compassion and repair
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:25am - 12:05pm GMT
This session is for anyone interested in a relational approach as opposed to a punitive behaviour model. It will consider: why change is needed, 5 guiding principles, Leadership 'buy in', the student profile tool, Relational Inclusion Champions, policy review and vocabulary, and pitfalls.
Speakers
avatar for Anthony Benedict

Anthony Benedict

CEO, Ambition Community Trust
Anthony has been a qualified teacher for 27 years. He started his career as an English teacher. He has worked in five different authorities and held senior roles, predominantly in secondary education, in six different schools. As Deputy Head Teacher, Standards and Effectiveness, he... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:25am - 12:05pm GMT
C3.12 Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

11:25am GMT

Tackling Emotionally-based School Avoidance (EBSA) - Panel Discussion
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:25am - 12:05pm GMT
Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA) is a growing challenge, leaving pupils at risk of falling behind and feeling disconnected from education. This session unpacks the causes and consequences of EBSA, offering practical strategies to support pupils and their families. Led by experts in education and wellbeing, this discussion will explore how schools can identify EBSA early, foster positive relationships, and implement interventions that re-engage learners.

Whether you’re a leader, teacher, or wider practitioner, join us to learn how a proactive, compassionate approach can help pupils overcome barriers and rebuild their confidence in school life.
Speakers
avatar for Hannah Rigg

Hannah Rigg

Assistant Headteacher - Inclusion, Leverhulme Community Primary School
Hannah is an Assistant Head Teacher for Inclusion and Designated Safeguarding Lead at Leverhulme Primary School in Bolton, a large, diverse, two-form entry school with 420 pupils, 60% of whom are eligible for free school meals, and over half live in areas among the 10% most deprived... Read More →
avatar for Jen Graham

Jen Graham

Director of Research, Impact and Influence, The Difference
Jenny is director of research, impact and influence at the Difference. The Difference are a founding member of the Who is Losing Learning coalition, alongside IPPR and Impetus. Jenny runs our research portfolio, evaluation of our two leadership programmes on inclusion, and leads our... Read More →
avatar for Elizabeth Rhodes

Elizabeth Rhodes

National Lead for Student Inclusion – Secondary phase, Oasis Community Learning
Elizabeth is National Lead for Student Inclusion at Oasis Community Learning 
avatar for Ryan Carty

Ryan Carty

Specialist Practitioner, Westminster City Council - Changing Futures Specialist Team
Ryan is dedicated to helping people reach their full potential while navigating life's challenges. Over the past decade, he has worked with some of the UK’s most vulnerable youth in London, the North West, as well as in South Africa. Currently, Ryan works as a Specialist Practitioner... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:25am - 12:05pm GMT
C3.14 Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

11:25am GMT

What roles can local authorities really play in reducing absence & exclusions? (Panel Discussion)
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:25am - 12:05pm GMT
Join Janice Allen, Maureen McKenna, Florence Kroll and The Difference's Irene Ogunseitan as they discuss what role local authorities can play in reducing absence and exclusion. 
Speakers
avatar for Irene Ogunseitan

Irene Ogunseitan

Programme and Communications Lead, The Difference
Irene is the Programme and Communications Lead at The Difference. With over 20 years of teaching experience, she holds a Master’s in Education and Policy and specialises in inclusion and behaviour. As part of The Difference’s pioneer cohort of Difference Leaders, Irene worked... Read More →
avatar for Janice Allen

Janice Allen

Director, The Education Community Partnership
Janice was previously a Secondary School Headteacher. For the past eighteen months, since going solo, she has worked across secure settings, Alternative Provisions and with Right to Succeed on place based partnerships.
avatar for Maureen McKenna

Maureen McKenna

Greater Glasgow Area, Former Executive Director of Education
Maureen was a mathematics teacher in a range of secondary schools in the north east and west of Scotland.In 2000, she joined Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Education, where she inspected a wide range of schools as well as education authorities and child protection. Maureen held a... Read More →
avatar for Florence Kroll

Florence Kroll

Director of Children's Services, Royal Borough of Greenwich
Florence has been the Director of Children’s Services in Greenwich since September 2016. She qualified as a social worker in 1991 and has worked in a range of voluntary and statutory settings predominately in family and adolescent services including youth justice. Florence values... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:25am - 12:05pm GMT
C3.11 Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

12:05pm GMT

Break, Refreshments and Exhibition viewing
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:05pm - 12:25pm GMT
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:05pm - 12:25pm GMT
Jeffrey Hall Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

12:35pm GMT

Connecting systems within school, across schools and cross-sectors: developing systems to create a culture of belonging
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:35pm - 1:15pm GMT
The session is aimed at school leaders and systems leaders. It explains how values driven 'active agency' can develop interconnected systems for pastoral care within schools, across schools and form the foundation for local area cross-sector partnerships. Reflecting on Broffenbreener's ecological systems Tom will share how practice within Carr Manor Community School, across a local area partnership of schools, and in the Leeds Learning Alliance interconnect to create a culture of belonging for all those involved.
Speakers
avatar for Tom Shaw

Tom Shaw

Director of Research and Development, Carr Manor Community School
Tom’s current role is Director of Research & Development at Carr Manor Community School, Leeds. He started in 2016 and was soon developing the Restorative Practice and Character work that had begun at Carr Manor Community School and Wetherby High School. In addition, on behalf of... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:35pm - 1:15pm GMT
Drama Hall Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

12:35pm GMT

Designing Inclusive Classrooms
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:35pm - 1:15pm GMT
We support teachers in developing their consciousness, confidence and competence in considering how inclusive their learning environment is. We will review the things we can do to the physical space and to the different learning zones to enhance levels of inclusion. We will consider how we organise resources and use our displays to create belonging.

Our training session includes:
- Inclusive classroom organisation
- Inclusive classroom resources
- Inclusive classroom routines
- Inclusive classroom behaviours
- Inclusive classroom language.
Speakers
avatar for Hannah Wilson

Hannah Wilson

Co-Founder and Director, Diverse Educators
Hannah is the Co-Founder and Director of #DiverseEd and works full time as an independent leadership development consultant, coach and trainer with a specialism in DEI. She grows their community, organises their events and designs/ delivers their training offer. She is a former Executive... Read More →
avatar for Yamina Bibi

Yamina Bibi

Deputy Headteacher + #DiverseEd Associate, Sarah Bonnell School
Yamini Bibi is an associate trainer. She is an Acting Deputy Headteacher of an inner-London secondary school and a regional leader for #WomenEd. She is the author of ‘A Little Guide for Teachers: Thriving in Your First Years of Teaching’.
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:35pm - 1:15pm GMT
C3.11 Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

12:35pm GMT

From Reactivity to Curiosity: Shifting the Dynamic in Challenging Moments (Trauma-Informed practice)
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:35pm - 1:15pm GMT
In this session, Laura and Tish will share their personal journeys from feeling mystified by student behaviour as teachers to seeking understanding through psychoanalytic training, and their application of this learning back in the classroom/in AP. The session will include a nuanced exploration of the teacher-student relationship, how to decode behaviour and understand it as communication, as well as plenty of practical tips and strategies to inform practice.

Key takeaways:
- To view challenging behaviours not simply as "bad" actions but as manifestations of deeper emotional needs and relational dynamics.
- To reflect on ourselves and recognise our own input into the dynamics of our relationships with others.
- To identify common defence mechanisms and how these might manifest as behaviours in the classroom.
- The benefits of relational practice & how this can be embedded.
-An empowering framework for understanding & responding to the complexities of behaviour




















Speakers
avatar for Laura Katan

Laura Katan

Deputy Headteacher, Haringey Learning Partnership
Laura trained to teach at a school in London and worked as Second in Charge in the Maths department. Laura left teaching in 2020 to complete her Masters in psychoanalytical observations of young people at the Tavistock and Portman NHS Trust Foundation. After completing The Difference... Read More →
avatar for Tish Fielden

Tish Fielden

Co-Founder & Director of Therapeutic Education, Jamie's Farm
Tish is a former teacher and UKCP Registered Psychotherapist with over 30 years’ experience of working with children in schools, residential settings, clinical settings and the community. Since co-founding the education charity Jamie's Farm with her son in 2009, Tish has supported... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:35pm - 1:15pm GMT
C3.15 Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

12:35pm GMT

Graduated approach as whole-school approach: Distributed leadership and knowledge of SEND to improve outcomes for our learners at risk
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:35pm - 1:15pm GMT
This session will explore how the graduated approach can be applied at a whole-school, system-wide level to build capacity, enable effective joined up working, and develop sustainable structures and procedures to take a holistic approach to meeting pupils’ needs. It will explore how this both supports accurate identification of need and appropriately targeted early intervention in our schools as well as positions us as school professionals, in partnership with parents, to be able to advocate within the wider ecosystem for our pupils at risk. 

During this session, we will look at some of the theory and legislative context as well as share examples of practical implementation and the impact of this. The session aims to empower school leaders to reflect on current practice and procedure through the SEND lens to drive improved early intervention, increase access and improve outcomes. This session is aimed at school leaders (pastoral, SEND and other senior leaders).
Speakers
avatar for Amelie Thompson

Amelie Thompson

Assistant Director of Education – SEND and Special Provision, Greenshaw Learning Trust
Amelie has extensive leadership experience and is passionate about strong system leadership that challenges and enables all leaders to be leaders of SEND to improve outcomes and access for all learners. Amelie has worked in several roles, including as SENCO, Head of Inclusion and... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:35pm - 1:15pm GMT
C3.12 Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

12:35pm GMT

How do we measure inclusion across a multi-academy trust? (Panel Discussion)
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:35pm - 1:15pm GMT
What does true inclusion look like, and how can Multi-Academy Trusts (MATs) measure it effectively?

This powerful panel discussion brings together education leaders to explore innovative ways to assess and monitor inclusion across diverse schools. From analysing data on exclusions and attendance to evaluating belonging and engagement, the session will highlight tools and frameworks utilised by successful MAT leaders.

Join us for an insightful conversation on setting meaningful inclusion benchmarks and driving trust-wide change that supports every learner’s success. Perfect for MAT leaders, educators, and policymakers aiming to prioritise inclusion at scale.

Speakers
avatar for Mohamed Abdallah

Mohamed Abdallah

Head of the Inclusive Leadership Course, The Difference
Mohamed, with a background in youth work and pupil referral units, spent over a decade leading inclusive practices at an 'Outstanding' mainstream school. Using Asset-Based Community Development and a multi-disciplinary approach, he successfully reduced exclusions. Now, at The Difference... Read More →
avatar for Pippa Sadgrove

Pippa Sadgrove

Director of Behaviour and Attendance, Co-op Academies Trust
Pippa is the Director of Behaviour and Attendance at the Co-op Academies Trust - which has 38 academies across the north of England including special schools, primary, secondary and a 6th form college. Pippa has been a senior leader in schools in London and West Yorkshire for over... Read More →
avatar for Matt Bindon

Matt Bindon

Trust Lead for Alternative provision and specialism, Ted Wragg Trust
I joined the Ted Wragg Trust in April 2024 to lead on our Trust's commissioning of external alternative provision, support schools in setting up their our internal curriculum adaptation spaces and working with schools supporting pupils with a high level of additional needs. Prior... Read More →
avatar for Stephen Steinhaus

Stephen Steinhaus

CEO, Solihull Alternative Provision Multi Academy Trust
After completing his degree in The Teaching of English and career as an American Football player at The University of Illinois (USA), Stephen Steinhaus turned down a professional wrestling contract to move as a Fulbright Scholar to the United Kingdom to study for an MPhil in Shakespeare... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:35pm - 1:15pm GMT
Logan Hall Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

12:35pm GMT

Proactive violence prevention: Perspectives from evidence and practice
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:35pm - 1:15pm GMT
Drawing on research and leadership experience, we’ll explore the ways in which educators can reduce the likelihood of children becoming involved in violence.

Speakers
avatar for Dennis Simms

Dennis Simms

Head of Change for Education, Youth Endowment Fund
As Head of Change for Education at the Youth Endowment Fund, Dennis advocates for the implementation of evidence-informed practice and system change that will prevent children’s involvement in violence. Dennis is a former school and Alternative Provision leader who wrote the Alternative... Read More →
avatar for Gill LaRoque

Gill LaRoque

Headteacher, Saffron Valley Collegiate
Gill LaRocque has worked in education for almost twenty five years with the last five years being in Alternative Provision. The majority of her career has focused on inspiring young people through her passion for English Literature but a chance encounter whilst on an Equality & Diversity... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:35pm - 1:15pm GMT
C3.09 Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

12:35pm GMT

See Us, Hear Us: The perceptions and wellbeing of Black Girls in London Secondary Schools
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:35pm - 1:15pm GMT
Aimed at teachers and school staff this session will delve into the perceptions of Black Girls and how this is impacting their wellbeing. Led by girls from Milk Honey Bees they will provide solutions that can help educators understand Black Girls, their wellbeing and create change for and with Black girls in their schools.
Speakers
avatar for Ebinehita Iyere

Ebinehita Iyere

Founder & CEO, Milk Honey Bees
Ebinehita Iyere is founder of Milk Honey Bees – a creative and expressive safe space for young Black women and girls to put H.E.R (Healing, Empowerment and Resilience) first. It’s more than just an organisation: it’s a sisterhood, a family. Their essay collection Girlhood Unfiltered... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:35pm - 1:15pm GMT
Elvin Hall Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

12:35pm GMT

When the parents come to school too...Running family support circles in mainstream
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:35pm - 1:15pm GMT
The Pears Family School is a unique educational asset in London. An innovative aspect of the current programme is that it requires a parent or significant adult family member to participate in the classroom with their child. Thirty children, each with their parent or carer, attend at any one time, creating what is known as a multi-family group in the classroom. The focus is on families helping themselves and each other to create the conditions and changes necessary so that their children can resolve their problems and be better equipped to return to school as functioning learners. Therapeutic techniques are embedded in all aspects of the teaching and learning programme.

This session will focus on Pears Family School partnership working with Olive AP Academies, bringing the idea of a multi-family group to new settings. 
Speakers
avatar for Brenda McHugh

Brenda McHugh

Co-Founder and Consultant Psychotherapist, Pears Family School
avatar for Neil Dawson

Neil Dawson

Co-Founder and Consultant Psychotherapist, Pears Family School
Neil has been a Governor of the Pears Family School since it first opened in September 2014. Neil is the school’s SEND link governor and attends the Finance as well as the Achievement and Wellbeing Sub-Committees. Neil is the Co-founder of the school and Vice-chair, as well as a... Read More →
MS

Michael Storr

Associate Tutor, Olive AP Academy Thurrock
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:35pm - 1:15pm GMT
C3.13 Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

1:15pm GMT

Lunch and Exhibition viewing
Saturday January 11, 2025 1:15pm - 2:20pm GMT
Saturday January 11, 2025 1:15pm - 2:20pm GMT
Jeffrey Hall Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

2:20pm GMT

Battling perverse incentives: How do we change policy to make schools more inclusive? (Panel Discussion)
Saturday January 11, 2025 2:20pm - 3:00pm GMT
How can we reshape policies that inadvertently discourage inclusion in schools?

This panel discussion brings together education leaders and changemakers, including Kiran Gill (CEO & Founder of The Difference), Patrick Cozier (Headteacher, Highgate Wood), Tom Rees (CEO, Ormiston Academy Trust), and Jonny Uttley (CEO, TEAL Trust). Together, they will explore how policy frameworks impact school behaviour, from accountability measures to funding structures, and discuss practical ways to remove perverse incentives. 
Speakers
avatar for Patrick Cozier

Patrick Cozier

Headteacher, Highgate Wood School
Patrick Cozier is a successful and experienced secondary school leader. He has been a Headteacher of a large comprehensive school (over 1500 students) for the last 17 years. He has also been the chair of the Haringey Secondary Heads Forum for the last 9 years. In the last five years... Read More →
avatar for Kiran Gill

Kiran Gill

CEO, The Difference
Kiran began her career in inner-city London, as an English teacher in schools serving the most deprived postcodes in the country. After five years on the frontline, Kiran left to work in education policy, searching for solutions to the rising number of children who fall through the... Read More →
avatar for Jonny Uttley

Jonny Uttley

CEO, The Education Alliance Multi-Academy Trust (TEAL)
Jonny Uttley is the CEO of The Education Alliance Multi-Academy Trust (TEAL). He has been in post since April 2018, having previously been head teacher at South Hunsley School. TEAL is a trust of twelve schools, in East Yorkshire, Hull and York, serving over 7,000 students, and a... Read More →
avatar for Tom Rees

Tom Rees

CEO, Ormniston Academies Trust
Tom is chief executive of Ormiston Academies Trust, one of England’s most established school trusts which serves over 35,000 children in 44 schools across the country, including special, alternative provision, primary and secondary. He has 25 years of experience working in education... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 2:20pm - 3:00pm GMT
Logan Hall Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

2:20pm GMT

Creating safe, relational spaces: cost-effective solutions for vulnerable student success
Saturday January 11, 2025 2:20pm - 3:00pm GMT
Football Beyond Borders works with 3,000 young people in London, the North West and the West Midlands every week, with their work focused on engaging the most vulnerable students. Join them for a session exploring how relational practices can enhance school cultures and improve outcomes for vulnerable students. Drawing on FBB’s approach to training and development, this workshop will showcase live case studies of their impact in schools across the UK, highlighting the power of relational cultures in boosting engagement, mental well-being, and student-staff relationships. Targeting headteachers and senior leaders, this session will offer practical solutions for schools aiming to build relational cultures, strengthen staff development, and improve outcomes for young people, while making savings too.
Speakers
avatar for Jack Reynolds

Jack Reynolds

Chief Executive / Co-Founder, Football Beyond Borders
Jack is co- founder of Football Beyond Borders (FBB) and Chief Exec. FBB is non-profit that works with young people from areas of socio-economic disadvantage who are passionate about football but disengaged at school, using the beautiful game as a means to empower and inspire their... Read More →
avatar for Amani Carr

Amani Carr

Lead Preactioner /Curriculum Lead, Football Beyond Borders
Amani is a Lead practitioner and programme design lead at FBB , Amani has years of experience working both in the charity sector and secondary schools to improve the lives of our most vulnerable young people. Not only is Amani an experienced youth worker he is also a talented musician... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 2:20pm - 3:00pm GMT
C3.13 Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

2:20pm GMT

How do we best engage parents to improve belonging?
Saturday January 11, 2025 2:20pm - 3:00pm GMT
The evidence base is strengthening that parental engagement is key to fostering a sense of belonging and reducing pupil absence.

This session brings together insights from primary, secondary, and Alternative Provision (AP) settings, showcasing impactful strategies to build strong school-parent partnerships. With case studies from Invicta Primary School, Tunmarsh School, and the collaborative work between Women’s Inclusive Team’s parent liaison practitioners and Morpeth School, the discussion will highlight practical approaches to enhance communication, trust, and collaboration with families.

Join us to explore proven methods that empower parents, strengthen connections, and create inclusive school communities where every child feels they belong.


Speakers
avatar for Jodie Cawte

Jodie Cawte

Executive Headteacher, Invicta Primary School
I am proud to be the Executive Headteacher of Invicta, a happy and vibrant 2 site primary school which celebrates the diversity of its community. I work with a dedicated and talented team to provide a friendly, caring and inclusive learning environment where our children can feel... Read More →
avatar for Ilham Yusuf

Ilham Yusuf

Somali Parent Liaison Officer, Women’s Inclusive Team / Morpeth School
Ilham Yusuf is a Somali Parent Liaison Officer working at the Women’s Inclusive Team in Tower Hamlets. Based at Morpeth School, she aims to bridge the gap between the school and Somali parents. She collaborates with Morpeth and other schools in the borough to advocate for equality... Read More →
avatar for Terry Grego

Terry Grego

Deputy Headteacher, Tunmarsh School
Terry is Deputy headteacher of Newham PRUs, and a former Difference Leader. 
Saturday January 11, 2025 2:20pm - 3:00pm GMT
C3.12 Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

2:20pm GMT

Inclusive Allyship
Saturday January 11, 2025 2:20pm - 3:00pm GMT
We support all stakeholders in schools and trusts, in developing their consciousness, confidence and competence in standing up, speaking out and showing solidarity for people who hold different identities to their own. We will create a safe space for you to explore your identity, power and privilege. We will create a brave space for you to consider how you can leverage your privilege and expand your sphere of influence.

- Reflecting on the journey of an ally
- Unpacking and navigating our privilege
- Exploring our willingness to be vulnerable
- Sharing how we can learn from making mistakes
- Considering how we create and hold safe spaces
- Navigating our strong emotions
- Challenging language, behaviours and practices that are not inclusive.
Speakers
avatar for Hannah Wilson

Hannah Wilson

Co-Founder and Director, Diverse Educators
Hannah is the Co-Founder and Director of #DiverseEd and works full time as an independent leadership development consultant, coach and trainer with a specialism in DEI. She grows their community, organises their events and designs/ delivers their training offer. She is a former Executive... Read More →
avatar for Adrian McLean

Adrian McLean

Director of Education + #DiverseEd Associate, Severn Academies Educational Trust
Adrian McLean is an associate coach, consultant and trainer. He is a former Headteacher and a current trust lead for character and personal development.
Saturday January 11, 2025 2:20pm - 3:00pm GMT
C3.11 Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

2:20pm GMT

Principles for Inclusive Leadership
Saturday January 11, 2025 2:20pm - 3:00pm GMT
The Difference has three principles of whole-school inclusion
  • All children have learning, wellbeing and safeguarding needs
  • Relationships are integral to learning 
  • Leading systems and practice change is key to whole school inclusion 
5 current Difference Leaders working across mainstream and alternative provision settings discuss their principles for inclusive leadership, and examples of how they tackle these through people, policy and practice. 
Speakers
avatar for Jayde Sarrington

Jayde Sarrington

Difference Leader
Jayde is an associate senior leader at ACE Luton, and a Difference Leader from Cohort 5 of the Difference Leadership Programme.
avatar for Ben Taylor

Ben Taylor

Difference Leader
avatar for Dan Dudson

Dan Dudson

Difference Leader
Secondary Head of Year, Kettering Science Academy/Brooke Weston Trust. Difference Leader Cohort 5. 
avatar for Anthony O'Brien

Anthony O'Brien

Difference Leader
Anthony O’Brien is an Assistant Head Teacher with responsibility for Induction, Reintegration and Outreach at a London based PRU. He has spent the last year developing guidance papers in a wide range of areas to help improve practice across the borough in which he works, most notably... Read More →
avatar for Stuart Walker

Stuart Walker

Difference Leader
Saturday January 11, 2025 2:20pm - 3:00pm GMT
C3.15 Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

2:20pm GMT

The three phases of introducing a successful Internal Alternative provision
Saturday January 11, 2025 2:20pm - 3:00pm GMT
This session outlines the three key phases of introducing a successful Internal Alternative Provision, from experiences at Co-op Academy Grange. This session will be particularly useful for school leaders and Alternative Provision staff.
Speakers
avatar for Shazad Ali

Shazad Ali

Lead for Alternative Provisions, Coop Academy Grange
Shazad Ali is a dedicated education professional with a proven track record in establishing and managing alternative provisions (AP) within schools. Over the past four years, he has successfully set up three internal APs across two schools, demonstrating his expertise in creating... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 2:20pm - 3:00pm GMT
Drama Hall Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

2:20pm GMT

What helps and what hinders: How schools can support the Romani (Gypsy), Roma and Irish Traveller communities to engage and thrive (Panel Discussion)
Saturday January 11, 2025 2:20pm - 3:00pm GMT
How can schools better support Romani (Gypsy), Roma, and Irish Traveller (GRT) pupils to engage and succeed in education?

This panel discussion features insights from Traveller organisations and individuals with lived experience, offering practical guidance on creating inclusive school environments.

Participants will share strategies for empowering GRT children and young people, as well as highlight common pitfalls to avoid when working with these communities. Join to further understanding, build trust, and create opportunities for GRT pupils to thrive in education and beyond.

Speakers
avatar for Chelsea McDonagh

Chelsea McDonagh

Senior Researcher and Co-founder, Rom Belong, Kings College London
Chelsea McDonagh is an Irish Traveller, Senior Researcher and writer. She is one of the co-creators of the Rom Belong Widening Participation Programme at King’s College London and continues to offer training and consultancy for community organisations, universities, and local authorities... Read More →
avatar for Grace Preston

Grace Preston

Senior Policy & Advocacy Officer, The Traveller Movement
Grace Preston is the Senior Policy and Advocacy Officer at the Traveller Movement (TM). She works mainly on TM's criminal justice and education policy work, where she advocates for the rights and needs of Romani (Gypsy), Roma and Irish Traveller communities. With a background in social... Read More →
ES

Esther Stubbs

Associate Lecturer, GTRSB into Higher Education Pledge Lead
RM

Rebecca McWherter

Research Associate, ROMLIT - University of East Anglia
avatar for Cristín O'Brien

Cristín O'Brien

Senior Policy Advisor, The Difference
Cristín began her career as a Community Worker and Social Worker serving the Irish Traveller community in Dublin. She then completed a Diploma in Law before moving to London to complete her Master’s degree in Human Rights and Politics at LSE. Upon graduation, she joined Ofsted... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 2:20pm - 3:00pm GMT
C3.09 Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

2:20pm GMT

What's so special about special educational needs? Towards a more inclusive approach
Saturday January 11, 2025 2:20pm - 3:00pm GMT
Despite the efforts of many brilliant practitioners and families, the national "SEND system" is not working and needs urgent and fundamental reform. In this session, Ben Bryant from Isos Partnership will talk about his recent report that looks at the scale of the challenges in the "SEND system", the root causes of those challenges, and what is needed to build a new, more inclusive and holistic approach. This session will be of interest to anyone who wants to see reform of the current "SEND system" and wants to join the debate about how to make that happen.
Speakers
avatar for Ben Bryant

Ben Bryant

Director of Isos Partnership, Isos Partnership
Ben Bryant is a Director of the independent research and advisory organisation, Isos Partnership. Ben specialises in developing approaches to support young people with additional needs. He has undertaken high-profile national research on inclusion, exclusions, AP, additional needs... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 2:20pm - 3:00pm GMT
Elvin Hall Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL

3:15pm GMT

Conference Closing
Saturday January 11, 2025 3:15pm - 4:00pm GMT
Saturday January 11, 2025 3:15pm - 4:00pm GMT
Logan Hall Institute of Education, UCL, 20 Bedford Way, WC1H 0AL
 
IncludEd 2025
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