Leadership Conference Strengthens Strategic Focus on CPD and Inclusion

TKAT Leadership Conference Strengthens Strategic Focus on CPD and Inclusion

Leaders from across The Keys Academy Trust gathered for the TKAT Annual Leadership Conference 2026, a two‑day event designed to deepen professional expertise, strengthen inclusive practice and support strategic alignment across all TKAT schools. Held on 5 and 6 February, this year’s conference brought together national expertise, trust‑wide collaboration and evidence‑informed professional development. We were joined by local school leaders on day 1, so as we could share this best practise and leadership thinking more widely in the education sector locally.

The conference opened with a keynote from Dr Chris Baker, who’s Powering Up Professional Development framework encouraged leaders to re‑examine how CPD is designed, delivered and evaluated. Dr Baker explored the relationship between mental models, behaviour and impact, emphasising that knowledge alone is insufficient for meaningful professional growth. He highlighted the importance of:

• Psychological safety as the foundation for staff development
• CPD that moves beyond information delivery to include practice, feedback and reflection
• Ensuring coherence and contextual relevance across all PD programmes

Delegates responded enthusiastically to the session, with one attendee describing it as: “Two inspiring, thought‑provoking speakers that supportively challenged my thinking.” Another added: “The morning session with Chris was excellent – knowledgeable and great rapport with the room. Lots to think about.”

The afternoon focused on inclusive leadership, led by Gary Aubin, who explored the national SEND landscape and its implications for school leaders. His session drew attention to rising SEND identification rates, attendance patterns and national outcomes, grounding discussions in current evidence. Gary urged leaders to prioritise the elements firmly within their control; classroom practice, expectations, school culture and the capability of staff at every level. He reiterated a central message: “Every teacher is a teacher of SEND. Every leader is a leader of SEND.”

Through practical case studies, evidence from the EEF and reflective tasks, leaders explored how to strengthen inclusive pedagogy and enhance the role of the SENDCO in strategic school improvement.

One leader captured the day’s impact succinctly: “It was all fab! New ideas for strategy.”

Day 2 offered TKAT leaders protected time to reflect, collaborate and align their school development priorities with the Trust’s strategic direction. Leaders welcomed the opportunity to step back from the day‑to‑day and focus on long‑term improvement.

Participants highlighted the value of:

1. Cross‑school collaboration and sharing expertise
2. Assessing where their school currently sits in relation to CPD and SEND priorities
3. Aligning school strategy with future Trust plans

One attendee wrote: “The collaboration across schools and the real professional sharing of expertise is incredibly valuable.” Another added: “Really useful to think about how to go forward with what was learned yesterday.”

The atmosphere was repeatedly described as positive and energising, with one participant noting “There was a really positive energy in the room.”

Speaking after the conference, a senior leader reflected: “This time together is vital. It strengthens us as a Trust and sharpens our collective ambitions for every child in our schools.”

The TKAT Annual Leadership Conference 2026 showcased the power of evidence‑informed practice, inclusive leadership and strong collaboration. As schools return to their settings, the learning from both days will support leaders to drive meaningful, sustainable improvement unlocking the future for all.