Hosted by FED and The University of Greater Manchester (formerly Bolton University)
School and college leaders are invited to a free seminar exploring how to create more impactful and transformative learning experiences for both students and educators.
Join Professor David Hopkins, The Foundation for Education Development and Dr Pinkie Mthembu for an insightful discussion on tackling one of the most pressing challenges in education:
Why is it that despite the phenomenal increase in our recent knowledge about what works in schooling, standards still lag behind expectations and school level performance is far too variable?
This paradox will be addressed through a critical lens, focused on the premise that unless we focus unrelentingly on the quality of teaching in both small and large scale reform efforts, current practice will never meet society’s expectations.
Date and Location:
Friday 27th June 2025, 1.00 – 3.30pm
The University of Greater Manchester (formerly Bolton University)
Dean Lecture Hall, Located in Senate House, University of Greater Manchester, BL3 5AB
What to Expect:
- Keynote from Dr Pinkie Mthembu on what we can learn from school improvement in South Africa, focused primarily on how district–university partnerships can serve as a catalyst for advancing educational equity and school improvement, particularly through “leading from the middle.”
- Exclusive insights from Professor Hopkins’ 40-year career: Learn from his extensive research and practical experience, spanning from the classroom to his role as a senior adviser at the Department for Education
- Innovative approaches in action: Discover the transformative impact of the University of Greater Manchester’s Laboratory School Network on teaching and learning across the sector including staff and students from the Laboratory Network (from the state and private sector and including AP)
- Collaborative learning: Share your experiences and gain actionable strategies for creating powerful learning environments
- Systemic change for the future: Hear from Dr. Carl Ward, Chair of the Foundation for Education Development (FED), on advocating for long-term, sustainable improvements in education that benefit learners, teachers, and communities
- Opportunities for networking.
Professor David Hopkins
Ranked as the 16th most influential educator in the world, Professor Hopkins is a renowned expert on school improvement and teaching quality. He has served as Chief Adviser to three UK Secretaries of State for Education, Dean of Education at the University of Nottingham, and consultant to the OECD and WHO. His latest book, Unleashing Greatness, published in June 2024, reflects his lifelong commitment to advancing education globally
Dr Pinkie Mthembu
Pinkie Mthembu, PhD, is a Senior Lecturer in the Education Leadership, Policy and Skills Division at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. Pinkie holds a PhD in Education, focusing on the district leadership role in supporting teaching and learning in South African schools. Pinkie’s research interests Leading and Managing Teaching and Learning and fostering university/district partnership.
Dr Carl Ward
As Chief Executive of The City Learning Trust and Chair of FED, Dr Ward brings regional, national, and international expertise in education strategy, leadership development and school-to-school improvement.
Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with leading experts and like-minded peers in shaping the future of education.
Date and Location:
Friday 27th June 2025, 1.00 – 3.30pm
The University of Greater Manchester (formerly Bolton University)
Dean Lecture Hall, Located in Senate House, University of Greater Manchester, BL3 5AB
