Inclusion in action: Surfacing strengths and identifying next steps — Cassie Young

The mainstream inclusion strategy sets an ambitious direction, but many schools are already doing more than they realise. The key is to identify strengths, make them visible, and focus on where improvement is most needed. Using practical examples, this session explores how leaders can use the seven lenses of inclusion to review provision, recognise effective practice, and set priorities based on their pupils and communities. Moving beyond policy, the session offers practical examples of inclusive practice, where to find evidence and how to focus improvement. Participants will leave with a clear understanding of their strengths and next steps.

About the speaker

Cassie Young is a prominent UK-based educational leader specialising in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and inclusion. She is an Executive Inclusion Lead for Myatt & Co, a former headteacher, and a frequent speaker on fostering inclusive practices through shared expertise and strategic leadership. She is currently the Inclusion Executive Officer at Our Community Multi Academy Trust.