International Montessori Institute to talk social justice and education in online conference

With global events having exacerbated inequities in education systems, a panel of researchers, practitioners and leaders in the early years and educational sectors will share learning, expertise and their vision for a more equitable future for children in the free online event. 

Dr Nathan Archer, Director of the IMI, said: “In this event we aim to draw together all those interested in education and social justice with diverse experiences and expertise, and shared commitments and priorities. We hope to stimulate ideas, discussion, and action around the potential of education, and particularly early education, to advance issues of social justice.

“Our event offers a diverse range of presentations from educators, sector leaders and researchers who will share their work on anti-racist approaches, tackling the injustices of poverty, and developing policies and programmes which address inequalities.”

The conference hosted by Leeds Beckett University’s Carnegie School of Education, include:

Carey Oppenheim, of Nuffield Foundation, leads a project on early childhood. Her career has encompassed research, policy, politics and practice – all with a focus on improving the lives of disadvantaged children. 

June O'Sullivan, an inspirational speaker, author and media commentator on allthings early years, social business and child poverty, for the past 10 years June has been instrumental in driving a major shift for early years education.

Shaddai Tembo is a lecturer in early education and childhood practice at Perth College UHI, an associate lecturer at the Open University, and a postgraduate research student at the University of the West of Scotland. He is a trustee for Early Education and the Fatherhood Institute. 

Dr Zinnia Mevawalla is a lecturer in early years education at the School of Education, University of Strathclyde. Zinnia has previously worked across institutions in Australia (University of Canberra, Macquarie University and Sydney University) and the United Kingdom (University of East London).

Dr Verity Campbell Barr, an associate professor in early childhood studies and the associate head of research at Plymouth Institute of Education, is the strategic lead for research within Plymouth Institute of Education, as well as the lead for the Children and Families Research Excellence Node.

Dr Jan Georgeson is senior research fellow in early education development at University of Plymouth and has a professional background as teacher of young children with special educational needs. Jan has written extensively on early years topics and is actively engaged in research.

Leonor Diaz Alcantara is an award-winning social entrepreneur, CEO and mentor who is currently Chief Executive of the Montessori Group. Under her leadership, the Montessori Group has set up the IMI in partnership with Leeds Beckett University. 

Sade Biobaku-Odusanya founded Living Spring Montessori in September 2004. As a working parent, she was unable to find a good Montessori nursery with opening hours to meet the needs of her family and those of other working families in the neighbourhood at the time. Sade and her husband Idong have two sons who both attended Living Spring Montessori.

Cynthia Adewole is owner of Wonder Years Project and was raised by a Montessori-trained parent. She offers consultancy and advisory services for Montessori Infant Communities and supports early years parenting through coaching, workshops and the Montessori in the home programme from birth.