Lincoln Conference

Human Scale Education offers a free annual day conference at Lincoln Bishop University for teachers, school leaders, and educators - indeed, for anyone with a keen interest in exploring the educational debate about schools, wellbeing, social justice and democracy. This is a rare opportunity to be challenged and inspired by recognised leaders in the field of education.

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2026: The Times They Are A-Changing: Reflecting on the 10th Annual Human Scale Education Conference

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What an extraordinary day! On Friday 19th June 2026, Human Scale Education hosted its milestone 10th annual conference at the beautiful Constance Stewart Hall, generously facilitated by Lincoln Bishop University. Centred around the timely theme, "The Times They Are A-Changing," the day brought together a passionate cohort of trainee teachers, teachers, university staff, and advocates, all united by a singular vision: putting relationships, democracy, and justice back at the heart of our schools.

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The energy in the room was palpable, underscored by officially welcoming over 30 new members to the HSE movement! This surge in support proves that educators are hungrier than ever for human-scale learning environments where every young person is genuinely known and valued.

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A Day of Inspiring Insights

The conference started off with a warm welcome from Lincoln Bishop Vice Chancellor Andrew Gower, setting a collaborative tone for the day.

• HSE Chair, Dr. Robin Precey opened the morning sessions with an introduction to the HSE movement before tackling the vital question: "Why do we need Human Scale Leadership and how can we achieve that?" Drawing on decades of experience, he challenged attendees to rethink top-down structures in favour of relational, empathetic leadership.

• Dr. Joseph Arhavbarien inspired attendees with an insightful critique of modern testing in his session, "Human Scale Assessment: Why? What?" He proposed a transformative framework for rethinking how we measure student success beyond standard metrics.

• Mia Sneyd captivated the room with her thought-provoking talk, "Do you really want to be a 'teacher'?" Mia explored the power of childhood and relational practice as an 'educator' rather than 'teacher'- encompassing belonging, respect, and trust for all.

• The legendary Derry Hannam then took the stage via video link to share his framework for "The 20% curriculum," providing practical avenues for introducing democratic student participation into state school frameworks.

• After lunch, Joel Gordon dove straight into the modern zeitgeist with "Artificial Intelligence: Foe or Friend", brilliantly navigating how emerging tech can support, rather than replace, human-centric education.

• Bringing the individual presentations to an emotional and inspiring close, HSE Trustee Rosalyn Spencer shared a deeply moving personal and professional reflection titled, "How Human Scale Education changed my life (and others too)."

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Engaging Panel Discussion & Audience Dialogue

The day was drawn to a close with a dynamic panel discussion, bringing all of our speakers back to the stage to take a wide range of thought-provoking questions from the audience. The high levels of student and attendee engagement truly shone through during this session, as participants pressed the panel on the most urgent realities facing educators today.

Key questions from the floor sparked intense and inspiring dialogue, including:

• The Panel’s "Why": Speakers shared their deeply personal core motivations for choosing a career in education.

• The Future of Assessment: Attendees questioned whether the rapid rise of AI will fundamentally change the way we examine students in England.

• Navigating Rigid Systems: Practitioners sought practical advice on how to find and maintain your authentic professional self when working within a school that has implemented rigid behavioural and teaching policies.

• The Viability of Scale: A crucial debate was raised on whether small schools can truly survive and thrive in today's current economic and political climate.

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We extend our deepest gratitude to the speakers who donated their time and profound expertise, and to Lincoln Bishop University for their flawless hospitality. The facilities, technical support, and welcoming atmosphere provided the perfect crucible for these important conversations.

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As we look to the future, it is clear that the tide is turning. With new members joining our ranks, and the celebrated partnership with Lincoln Bishop University, the human scale movement is stronger than ever. The times truly are a-changing, and together, we are building an educational system fit for human beings.

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