Derby’s education community is coming together for a landmark city-wide Inclusion INSET Day, bringing 2,600 colleagues from 79 schools to Vaillant Live on Friday 27 November 2026.

Organised by the Derby City Inclusion Partnership, the event will unite school leaders, teachers, teaching assistants, SENCos and support staff around one shared ambition: for every child and young person to feel welcomed, valued and supported to belong and thrive.

The day’s theme, “Inclusion: Everyone, Everyday, Everywhere”, will put practical inclusion at the centre of the programme. A shared morning session will combine keynote contributions, learning, celebration and reflection, before afternoon sessions allow colleagues to explore inclusive relationships, environments and everyday actions in greater depth.

Keynote speakers will include author and speaker Richard Gerver; Mark Finnis of L30 Relational Systems; Stephanie Davies of Laughology; and representatives from the Department for Education. Jo Wilkinson and Phil Smith from the Inclusion Partnership will add local insight, combining national perspectives with practical experience from across Derby.

The event builds on a significant city-wide commitment. All 106 Derby schools have signed the Derby City Inclusion Charter, whose ten principles support schools to develop inclusive relationships, cultures and provision.

The Derby City Inclusion Partnership brings together Derby City Council, Derby County Community Trust, Derby College, the University of Derby, school leaders and other education partners to build a truly inclusive education system. It reports to the Area Inclusion Partnership Board and helps turn the Inclusion Charter’s principles into everyday practice through professional development, networks, coaching, practical resources and opportunities to share effective approaches.

“Bringing so many colleagues together in one place sends a powerful message about Derby’s shared commitment to inclusion. We want every child and young person to feel that they belong. This day is about turning that ambition into the small, practical things we can all do, every day, in every school.” Sharon Buckby, Director of Learning, Inclusion and Skills, Derby City Council.

The day will also offer an opportunity to celebrate the collective efforts of Derby schools and strengthen connections across the city’s education community.