Celebrating Diversity and Promoting Equality in Schools - Speakers

John Rees
Education Consultant

John is an independent consultant who is passionately committed to enhancing the achievement and life chances of children and young people, through school improvement and by supporting the professional development of individuals and organizations. As an Ofsted-trained Inspector, John has focussed on supporting school improvement through SMSC, British Values and Personal Development, Behaviour & Welfare

Andrew Moffat
Assistant Headteacher, Parkfield Community School

Andrew Moffat is Assistant Headteacher at a large inner city primary in Birmingham. He is the author of “No Outsiders in our school: Teaching the Equality Act in Primary Schools” and is noted for work with faith communities on LGBT equality.

Michael Walsh
Headteacher, St. Mary's Church of England Primary Academy

Mike has been a Headteacher for nine years, six at his current school. Embracing diversity is at the heart of his vision for creating a learning environment in which every stakeholder can amaze us. The culture and curriculum he has developed has enabled all learners to be successful, thrive and prepares them to lead fulfilling lives. Mike is an active risk taker and this approach led the school to an Outstanding Ofsted judgement in February 2016.

Joshua Hunt
Chaplain, Felixstowe Academy

Josh is an Academy Chaplain and postgraduate researcher based in Suffolk. He is passionate about the boundaries of faith and education, and has pioneered some highly creative projects with staff and students at Felixstowe Academy

Jennifer Richards
Headteacher, St Mark’s CE Primary

Jenni has been teaching since 1996 and has experience as a senior leader and deputy headteacher prior to joining St Mark’s CE Primary in 2012 as Headteacher. Under her leadership, pupil outcomes have improved significantly and the school was judged ‘Good’ by Ofsted and Outstanding leadership was recognised.

John Stainer
Assistant Headteacher, Great Torrington School

John is Assistant Headteacher at Great Torrington School in North Devon. Great Torrington School is in the top 10% of schools nationally for academic progress and is a recipient of the DfE Character Education Award for the South West. John has built a reputation as an outstanding history teacher and has experience as a PSHE co-ordinator

Sarah Soyei
Head of Partnerships, EqualiTeach

Sarah is a founder of EqualiTeach (www.equaliteach.co.uk) and has been working in the field of equality in education for 14 years. She has overseen the development and delivery of educational programmes which have been delivered to over 300,000 young people and works in partnership with senior leaders to ensure schools effectively promote equality. Sarah has written several educational resources, including international guidelines on countering intolerance towards Muslims with UNESCO and research into the barriers to tackling racism in England's schools.

Lila Begum
Workshop Facilitator, EqualiTeach

Lila Begum advises Bedfordshire Police as an advocate for black, Asian and other minority ethnic people living in Bedfordshire. Lila is passionate about removing the barriers to participation in society; she regularly delivers presentations on forced marriage, honour based violence and embracing cultural diversity to create an inclusive society.