Members of our school had the opportunity to participate in the CEESA conference again this year. This time, our teachers Alex and Anniek, as well as Mr. Gareth, traveled to Split. After their visit and participation in the conference, read a short interview with Mr. Gareth.
What were the main themes and objectives of this year’s CEESA conference?
The theme was “Igniting Leadership: Every Voice, Every Role.” The conference focused on inclusive leadership, empowering all members of a school community to contribute meaningfully to positive change.
Who were the keynote speakers at the conference, and what were their key messages?
The keynote speakers were:
- Myron Dueck – Assessment and innovation in education.
- Tricia Friedman – Inclusion and allyship in school communities.
- Dr. Derrick Gay – Fostering belonging and intercultural understanding.
- Kristin Lowe – Positive organisational development and leadership coaching.
- Ewan McIntosh – Design thinking in education.
- Aaron Moniz – Service learning and education for sustainability.
- Kathleen Naglee – Strategic leadership and future-focused school development.
- Maymouna Sakho – Equity, inclusion, and systems-level change.
- Dr. Sean Truman – Mental health and well-being in international schools.
Was there a particular workshop or presentation that left a strong impression on you?
Yes – Christine Calderon’s workshop on “Fostering Belonging, Repairing Harm” was particularly impactful, offering practical strategies for building inclusive and supportive school cultures.
How did participants evaluate the organisation and content of the conference in Split?
Participants were encouraged to provide feedback through the event app Whova, engaging in community forums and rating individual sessions. Feedback was largely positive, highlighting the quality of speakers and the event’s welcoming atmosphere.
Did you gain any new insights or contacts that will be useful in your future work?
Absolutely. The conference facilitated many valuable connections within the CEESA network, especially with local schools across the Balkans and service providers who can support our school’s development.
How will the experiences from the conference influence your professional development or work at school?
There are several key takeaways to bring to our next leadership team meeting. These insights will help shape our strategic direction and enhance our focus on inclusion, wellbeing, and student agency.
Is there a plan to participate in the next CEESA conference, and where will it be held?
Yes – our school is committed to continued engagement with CEESA, and the annual conference remains a vital part of that relationship. The location of the next conference has not yet been announced, but we look forward to hearing where it will be held.
