Middle Leader Certificate: Creating Systems for Belonging: 07, 14, 21, 28 October 2025

07 October: 15:00-17:00 London time with 1-hour break
14 October: 15:00-17:00 London time with 1-hour break
21 October: 15:00-17:00 London time with 1-hour break
28 October: 15:00-17:00 London time with 1-hour break

NOTE: Participants are expected to attend all sessions.
Facilitated by: Michael Neumann

Who truly belongs in our schools? Which groups feel a strong sense of belonging, and which do not? How do our school structures, curriculum, and daily practices shape inclusion and exclusion? As middle leaders, we are uniquely positioned to explore these questions, minimise barriers, and create a sense of belonging for all students.

In this course, we will examine different ways to explore and create belonging, drawing from theoretical perspectives, research methods, and practical initiatives. We will investigate strategies for gathering and analysing data, consider how language and policies shape belonging, and develop approaches to move from individual experiences to systemic change. Through discussion, case studies, and collaborative problem-solving, participants will identify actionable steps to foster a more inclusive school environment.

Key Questions for the Course: 

• Who experiences a strong sense of belonging in our schools, and who does not?
• How do we gather data on belonging in ways that reflect the diversity of our school community?
• How can data help us move from individual experiences to identifying systemic patterns of exclusion?
• How do curriculum, policies, and school practices reinforce social differences, and how can we challenge these structures?