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Phil will unpack the findings and learning from his best-selling book 'Happiness Factories and expand on his TEDx talk around the benefits of a positivity-focused approach to teaching and learning. With practical tips and suggestions, Phil will showcase the global work recognised within Happiness Factories, on striking a balance between academic rigour and positivity-based holistic development. He will inspire educational leaders to place positivity and praise-driven strategy at the heart of their own school's development. An upbeat and celebratory look the world of educational practice, Phil will champion the message that we do not need to be Exam Factories to be successful, but we should always strive to place a 'Happiness Factories' approach at the heart of every decision we make as school leaders.
Drawing from real-world experience, I will explore the critical distinctions between leadership and management in education, and how school leaders can inspire, empower, and lead with vision beyond administrative roles. My insights are grounded in practice and aligned with the goals of Vision 2030, driving meaningful transformation in teaching and learning across the region.
In this presentation, I will explore the critical role of educational leadership in shaping successful learning environments through strategic planning and curriculum development. Drawing from my extensive experience in academic leadership roles, including my tenure as Deputy Vice President for Executive Affairs at Ibnroshd Educational Holding Company, I will provide insights into effective strategies for improving educational outcomes. The session will cover key aspects such as developing a comprehensive curriculum that meets diverse student needs, implementing innovative teaching methodologies, and fostering an inclusive, collaborative learning environment. Attendees will learn about practical approaches to overcoming common challenges in educational management, with real-world examples from my professional journey. By the end of the presentation, participants will have a deeper understanding of the essential elements of educational leadership and how they can be applied
This session by Dr Richard Churches will cover findings from a forthcoming research report by Education Development Trust that explores teacher licensing as a powerful policy lever for improving education quality and system coherence. Drawing on in-depth case studies from a wide range of countries—including Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, the United States, Singapore, Vietnam, Estonia, and Ghana—the report provides a comparative analysis of licensing systems across centralised, decentralised, and hybrid models. The session will examine how teacher licensing, when coherently aligned with professional standards, initial teacher education, and continuing development, can enhance public trust, support teacher growth, and drive long-term improvements in student outcomes. The presentation will share a three-dimensional policy design model developed to help governments visualise reform possibilities across governance, licensing structure, and professional development integration. It will also highlight practical lessons for system leaders designing or revising teacher licensing frameworks, including strategies for embedding evidence-informed professional learning, ensuring equity in access, and building robust oversight.
STEM leadership is essential for driving innovation, fostering critical thinking, and preparing individuals for the challenges of a rapidly evolving world. By promoting diversity, shaping policies, and addressing global issues like climate change and technological advancement, STEM leaders play a vital role in shaping sustainable growth. Their efforts fuel economic progress, empower the workforce, and ensure global competitiveness, making STEM leadership a cornerstone for a brighter future.
Workshop: The 360-Degree Leader Description: This workshop introduces the concept of 360-degree leadership, enabling leaders to influence in all directions: themselves, their peers, subordinates, and even their superiors. It aims to equip participants with practical tools and strategies to enhance their leadership role in the workplace. Key Topics: Self-Leadership: Developing personal skills and managing priorities. Peer Leadership: Building effective teams and fostering collaboration. Subordinate Leadership: Motivating and guiding for optimal performance. Leading Upward: Positively influencing decision-makers and driving change.
What does it take to push beyond excellence? As Head of Pate's Grammar for 12 years, it was my job to find ways to lead one of Britain's top performing schools to new heights. Now at Misk Schools in Riyadh, I witness the same relentless passion and drive for excellence in support of the Kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030 education goals. Great schools need great leaders – not just at the top, but at every level. Drawing from my experience developing both student and staff leaders, I'll share: - An overview of the leadership framework we developed at Pate’s that codified outstanding leadership behaviours at all levels – from student to Senior Leadership. - Insights into the ‘Prep for Headship’ programme that I developed and now facilitate for the Grammar School Heads Association. Nearly a quarter of UK Grammar School Heads have been through this programme. - Why I became an Executive Coach and the power of coaching in school leadership.
In today’s dynamic educational landscape, staying ahead means continuously evolving—both as a teacher and a leader. But for busy educators, finding time for growth can be a challenge. This session explores how flexible, research-driven online programs—up to the doctoral level—are helping educators sharpen their practice, lead with confidence, and shape the future of learning. From understanding cutting-edge educational trends to learning how to integrate AI tools into your teaching practice, discover how upskilling can fit into your life, empower your career, and position you at the forefront of change.
Building sustainable leadership pipelines is essential for ensuring long-term success and resilience in schools but education faces challenges like leadership turnover and increasing complexity. Developing leadership pipelines involves identifying talent early, providing structured professional development, creating clear career pathways, and embedding equity. Current leaders play a vital role in mentoring and inspiring future leaders, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. At Misk Schools, valuable experience has been gained in implementing leadership development programmes, including mentorship schemes, professional coaching, and practical leadership training projects. These insights will be shared and attendees will workshop actionable strategies, such as how to identify potential leaders among educators, design professional growth pathways, and create a supportive culture for emerging leaders.
Ever wanted to make your wildest leadership dream happen ...in fact, make it a reality whilst the world is watching? An exploration (so far!) of leadership opportunities beyond the boundaries of everything that most of us know or have ever imagined. From leading in a brand new giga city ... opening brand new schools and building on from first 'Proof of Concept' schools in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
This post explores the role of kindness and simple gestures, such as giving flowers, in enhancing morale and increasing productivity in the workplace. Amid contemporary challenges faced by educational institutions in general, kindness has a significant impact on maintaining and motivating employee morale. Strategies of kind leadership emerge as effective and innovative tools. Through literature review, case studies, and personal experiences, we examine how small acts of kindness can create a positive and motivating work environment. We also discuss the positive impact of these actions on team performance and productivity, offering practical recommendations for leaders in education and other sectors on adopting these strategies to foster interaction and innovation within their teams in educational institutions such as schools and administrations.
In this session, we will explore the concept of Immunity to Change, which refers to the hidden resistance that can prevent both leaders and staff from embracing new practices. We’ll dive into why this resistance exists and, more importantly, how to break through it! You’ll walk away with practical strategies to help your team thrive during change, encourage growth, and build a culture of continuous improvement. These takeaways will provide you with insights and tools to support your leadership through resistance and make progress toward sustainable, transformative change in your school.
Think Again: Overcoming Unconscious Bias in Schools is an interactive workshop aimed at helping educators recognise and address unconscious bias in the classroom. Participants explore how bias affects teaching, learning, and student outcomes, particularly in areas like behaviour, curriculum representation, and disciplinary practices. The session includes real-world case studies, strategies for reducing bias (such as culturally responsive teaching and bias-aware assessment), and tools for fostering inclusive school cultures. Educators leave with practical strategies to mitigate bias, create equitable learning environments, and develop personalised action plans to continue their growth in promoting inclusion. The workshop encourages ongoing self-reflection, dialogue, and professional development to support all students’ success.
In today’s dynamic educational landscape, staying ahead means continuously evolving—both as a teacher and a leader. But for busy educators, finding time for growth can be a challenge. This session explores how flexible, research-driven online programs—up to the doctoral level—are helping educators sharpen their practice, lead with confidence, and shape the future of learning. From understanding cutting-edge educational trends to learning how to integrate AI tools into your teaching practice, discover how upskilling can fit into your life, empower your career, and position you at the forefront of change.
In this talk we will review the current global evidence on school improvement and effectiveness. The discussion focuses on the critical relationships between learning, teaching, leadership and government policy. It will signpost participants to a wide range of reading materials that they may wish to access. We will also explore what that latest evidence from the science of learning is pointing us to and the central importance of considering cognitive architecture at school and policy levels.
In this session, Dr Helen Wright, former Principal and now executive coach and consultant to schools across the world, will draw on her experience of coaching leaders in schools across the world to explore what coaching is really like in practice, why leaders and teachers should have a coach, and what they will gain from the relationship.
The Leadership Journey is a continuous path of learning and growth, starting with self-discovery and skill development, progressing to understanding and influencing others, and ultimately achieving goals and driving change. It is not just a position or authority but an art that balances vision and inspiration with wisdom and decision-making to create a successful and impactful environment.
Leadership starts from within. Over the past decade, working in Saudi Arabia and the U.S, I’ve learned that before we lead others, we must lead ourselves. Self-leadership means being self-aware, committed to growth, and emotionally intelligent. It’s about setting clear goals, managing priorities, and leading by example. Resilience and adaptability are also crucial to face challenges and inspire others. Equally important is knowing what kind of leader not to be. Avoid being authoritarian; leaders who lead by fear harm trust and collaboration. Don’t be inauthentic; people respect leaders who act with integrity and transparency. Lastly, never be non-inclusive; great leaders embrace diversity and fairness. By focusing on self-leadership and avoiding these pitfalls, we can inspire and lead effectively, making a positive impact wherever we are.
This workshop focuses on guiding employees on how to transition from being an ordinary employee to a professional by acquiring high-performance skills and adhering to professionalism standards in the workplace. It will address strategies for self-development and enhancing personal and professional skills, contributing to improved performance, increased efficiency, and creativity.
Public speaking and leadership are fundamentally connected, as both are centered on communication, influence, and vision. Effective leaders rely on strong public speaking skills to articulate their ideas, inspire action, and build credibility. Through compelling speeches and presentations, leaders motivate teams, drive change, and foster a shared sense of purpose. Public speaking enhances a leaders ability to convey their message with clarity and conviction, making it a vital tool for successful leadership. In essence, mastering public speaking is key to becoming an influential and impactful leader, capable of guiding others towards achieving common goals.
Following the excellence of GESS Dubai, we are bringing this renowned exhibition and conference to Saudi Arabia in 2025. There will be a wide range of exhibitors from across the world, showcasing their educational products, and a CPD accredited conference featuring high level speakers and innovative content.
Monday 26 May 10:00 - 18:00
Tuesday 27 May 10:00 - 18:00
Wednesday 28 May 10:00 - 17:00
We are here to answer any questions you might have.