Leading Inclusive schools
An interactive workshop led by Mel Ainscow

Venue: University of the Western Cape (UWC)

Date: 26 November 2026

Cost: R1,500 (this will include teas, coffees and lunch)

The organisers of this conference warmly invite teachers, alongside policymakers, students, academics, researchers, and other stakeholders, to participate in a one-day pre-conference workshop on Inclusive Education.

This workshop will focus on a what is arguably the greatest challenge facing education systems around the world, that of finding ways of including and ensuring the learning of all students in schools. Drawing on the extensive international experience of Professor Mel Ainscow, it will support participants in considering how schools can make all students feel welcome and supported in their learning.

The day will involve presentations based on evidence from international research and structured group activities. There will be a particular focus on the implications for the development of leadership practices.

Participants will also have the opportunity to engage in dialogue with leading scholars in the field, including Prof Roger Slee and Prof Mel Ainscow, as well as with key partners such as the Western Cape Department of Education.

The workshop is designed to support professional learning, critical reflection, and practical exchange, with a strong focus on empowering teachers as central agents in building inclusive and equitable education systems.

Programme outline

Morning session:

• Global developments – towards Education for All
• Understanding the development of inclusive schools
• Changing school cultures
• The tasks of leadership

Afternoon session:

• Reviewing schools
• Formulating improvement strategies
• Developing leadership practices
• Planning next steps

During the workshop participants will be provided with professional development materials, review frameworks and tools that can be used to support improvements within schools and across educational systems.

*Those registering for the full Rethinking (Inclusive) Education for Challenging Times conference can register for this pre-conference workshop at the same time. It is offered as an additional option on the conference registration form.