University of Greater Manchester
About this Event
🎓 About the Event
The ICEL International Conference 2026 brings together leading international scholars, system leaders, and practitioners to explore one of the most critical challenges in contemporary education:
How do we strengthen the instructional core to drive meaningful and sustained school improvement?
Framed around the theme “The Engine Room of School Improvement”, this conference will examine how leadership, teaching practice, and system design interact to improve outcomes for learners across diverse contexts.
This is a unique opportunity to engage with internationally renowned experts, hear from high-performing schools and trusts, and explore cutting-edge research shaping the future of educational leadership.
🌍 Keynote Speaker
- Sir Kevan Collins – Internationally recognised leader in education reform and system improvement
🎤 Featured Speakers & Contributors
- Professor David Hopkins – Conference Chair
- Professor Anthony Mackay – Facilitator
- Pasi Sahlberg – International education expert
- Pinkie Mthembu – System leadership specialist
- Carmen Montecinos – Researcher in educational leadership
- Chris Chapman – School improvement and system change
🧠 What to Expect
- Insightful keynote address on global school improvement
- An international panel exploring leadership across systems
- Real-world perspectives from schools and multi-academy trusts
- A doctoral research panel showcasing emerging scholarship
- The launch of a new Laboratory School / FED Manual
- Opportunities for networking and collaboration
🗓️ Programme Overview
- 10:00 – Conference Opening & Theme Introduction
- 10:10 – Keynote: Sir Kevan Collins
- 11:10 – International Panel
- 12:15 – School Leadership Panel
- 13:30 – Trust Panel
- 14:15 – Doctoral Panel
- 14:45 – Special Launch Event
- 15:00 – Close
(Full programme available upon registration)
👥 Who Should Attend
This conference is designed for:
- School leaders and senior leadership teams
- Trust and system leaders
- Educational researchers and doctoral students
- Policy-makers and education consultants
- Teachers interested in leadership and school improvement
🎯 Why Attend
- Gain practical insights into improving teaching and learning
- Engage with international thought leaders
- Explore evidence-informed strategies for school improvement
- Build your professional network across the sector
- Contribute to ongoing discussions shaping the future of education
🎟️ Tickets
Spaces are limited to ensure high-quality discussion and engagement.
Early booking is strongly recommended.
📩 Further Information
For any queries, please contact the ICEL team at the University of Greater Manchester.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Greater Manchester Business School (University of Bolton), Great Moor Street, Bolton, United Kingdom
GBP 0.00
