On Tuesday 30th June, Brooklands Technical College was proud to host the third annual SurreyFE Teaching & Learning Conference, welcoming more than 200 education professionals from across Activate Learning, Brooklands Technical College, East Surrey College and Nescot.
With this year’s theme, Inclusion, the conference brought together inspiring keynote speakers, thought-provoking workshops and valuable networking opportunities, all focused on creating more inclusive learning environments for students across further education.
The day opened with a CEO panel discussion, facilitated by Sonya Mallin, Strategic Director for SurreyFE. Joining the panel were Paul Newman, Chief Learning Officer (Curriculum) at Activate Learning; Christine Ricketts, CEO and Principal of Brooklands Technical College; Lindsay Pamphilon, CEO and Principal of East Surrey College; Julie Kapsalis, CEO and Principal of Nescot; and Julia Katherine from Surrey County Council.
Together, the panel explored why inclusion is fundamental to further education, discussing their shared commitment to creating environments where every learner feels supported, valued and able to thrive. The discussion set an inspiring tone for the day, highlighting the collective ambition across SurreyFE to improve opportunities and outcomes for all learners.
The conference’s first keynote speaker was Fatima Whitbread MBE, who shared her powerful personal story of growing up in the care system and the work she continues to do through Fatima’s UK Campaign. Her moving presentation highlighted the importance of collaboration, action and accountability in improving life outcomes for young people in care, leaving attendees with plenty to reflect on.
The second keynote was delivered by Leah Boxell, founder of Enablists, who spoke candidly about her own challenging childhood and encouraged educators to look beyond what they see in the classroom. She reminded delegates of the importance of recognising the hidden struggles some young people face, noticing the child who appears “fine” and understanding the positive impact education professionals can have simply by becoming part of a student’s story.
Throughout the day, delegates also had the opportunity to visit a range of exhibitors, Education Training Foundation, Metaverse Learning, Move Different and Action for Carers Surrey. Those who completed the exhibitor trail were entered into a prize draw to win a goody bag, with this year’s winner being Karen Leverton from Activate Learning.
A varied programme of workshops and seminars, delivered by colleagues from all four SurreyFE colleges, explored topics including re-engaging NEET learners, supporting young carers and unlocking opportunities for all students. These sessions provided practical ideas, shared best practice and encouraged collaboration across SurreyFE.
The conference concluded with an uplifting keynote from Kat Thorne, who inspired attendees to consider how small, consistent habit changes can have a lasting impact on both wellbeing and everyday life.
A huge thank you to all of our keynote speakers, workshop facilitators, exhibitors and delegates for making this year’s SurreyFE Teaching & Learning Conference such a memorable and inspiring event. Together, we continue to champion inclusion and share best practice to improve outcomes for learners across Surrey.
