Leading for diversity and inclusion in multifaith societies Seminar

Theme: Interdisciplinary, Involvement and Impact

Faith is becoming an ever more pressing issue in education. As the diversity of religions within many states increases, negative experiences for particular faith groups persist in schools across Europe.  Demand for faith schools is increasing rapidly in England alongside anxiety about their impact. Ireland’s demography has diversified considerably but almost all primary schools and nearly 50% of second level schools remain under the direct patronage of the Catholic Church.  In a socially and politically volatile context, how do leaders of both community and faith schools ensure inclusion of all learners, whatever diversity of religion or secular belief is present? 

The seminar will draw on interviews with school leaders in England, Wales and the Republic of Ireland uncovering a range of philosophies and practice, from conservative and excluding to transformational and inclusive. The latter involves accepting diversity as an immutable norm and embedding acceptance and respect throughout.