This dynamic masterclass equips school leaders with the strategic tools and psychological insights needed to excel under the new Ofsted 2025 framework, focusing on embedding impactful inclusion and fostering sustainable staff wellbeing.
With the new Ofsted framework taking effect from November 2025, school leaders face a critical need to align their practices with heightened expectations around inclusion, governance, and staff wellbeing. This masterclass directly addresses this challenge by deconstructing the updated Ofsted toolkit, transforming it from a compliance checklist into a powerful blueprint for genuine school improvement. We will guide you in moving beyond reactive measures to proactively build a school culture that is not only ‘Ofsted-ready’ but is fundamentally stronger, more inclusive, and more resilient.
Led by a unique partnership of inspection expertise and psychological insight, this programme offers a holistic approach to leadership. Stephen Burnage will leverage his deep experience in quality assurance to provide a practical framework for self-evaluation and strategic development. Samantha Garner will complement this by delving into the psychological principles that foster authentic inclusion and empower staff. You will leave with actionable strategies to implement emotionally intelligent leadership, cultivate purposeful collaboration, and create a personalised, “well thought through” plan that enables every member of your school community to thrive.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
This masterclass is essential for Headteachers, Deputy Headteachers, Assistant Headteachers, SENCOs, Inclusion Leaders, and all members of a school’s Senior Leadership Team who are responsible for strategic planning and Ofsted preparedness.
KEY LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Gain a comprehensive understanding of the key changes and expectations within the new Ofsted framework (November 2025).
Learn to effectively use the Ofsted toolkit for strategic selfevaluation, particularly in “Leadership and Governance” and “Inclusion”.
Develop a deep understanding of the psychological principles that underpin a truly inclusive culture for neurodivergent and vulnerable learners.
Master the foundations of Emotionally Intelligent Leadership to enhance personal effectiveness and champion staff wellbeing.
Implement practical coaching and mentoring frameworks to empower staff, foster resilience, and reduce dependency on senior leaders.
Cultivate a culture of “purposeful collaboration” and continuous professional learning across your school.
Apply learning to a real-world case study, developing a “well thought through” strategy for whole-school improvement.
Create a psychologically safe environment where both staff and pupils can flourish.
FACILITATORS
Stephen Burnage is a highly respected international education professional with over 38 years of experience in teaching and senior leadership. As a Fellow of the Chartered College of Teachers (FCCT), he has a proven track record in school improvement, leadership development, and quality assurance. Stephen works globally with institutions like the University of Cambridge and The British Council, leading on school leadership reform and authoring inspection protocols. His extensive experience provides unparalleled insight into meeting and exceeding inspection standards through practical, sustainable leadership strategies.
Samantha Garner is a renowned expert in educational psychology, inclusion, and staff wellbeing. She specialises in supporting schools to create psychologically safe environments where vulnerable students, particularly those who are neurodivergent, can thrive. Samantha’s acclaimed “Foundations of Emotionally Intelligent Leadership” workshop empowers leaders to manage their own emotions, foster resilience within their teams, and move beyond a “fix-it” culture. Her approach provides the essential human centred framework needed to build a truly inclusive and supportive school community.
