REND is a growing movement that brings together educators committed to strengthening equity, inclusion and culture across schools, trusts and the wider education sector. Designed as a space for connection, reflection and action, REND is intentionally not a conference, but an event. Instead, it creates an environment where colleagues can share lived experiences, build networks and leave not only inspired but equipped to make meaningful change in their organisations. 

Creative Education Trust colleagues supported both last year’s REND Northampton event and this year’s REND Nottingham, reflecting a shared commitment to the event’s focus on equity and inclusion.

A growing movement

REND Nottingham brought together educators from across Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and beyond, including teachers, support staff, school and trust leaders and sector partners. Hosted at Goosedale, the evening combined thoughtful discussion, powerful lived experience and opportunities for meaningful networking in a welcoming and celebratory setting. 

The event was opened by Pav Aujla, Quality of Education Lead at Creative Education Trust and organiser of REND Nottingham, who set the tone by reinforcing that the evening was about more than conversation.

She challenged attendees to consider what they would take back to their settings, reminding the audience that REND is “not a moment in time… it is a movement for change” and that its real impact lies in the action that follows. 

Throughout the evening, a clear message emerged that collaboration, allyship and accountability are essential if the sector is to achieve sustained and meaningful change.

Powerful voices and shared leadership

The evening featured contributions from leading voices across the education sector, each bringing a distinct perspective on how equity can be strengthened in practice.

Sufian Sadiq

Chief Talent and Transformation Officer at Chiltern Learning Trust, Sufian Sadiq delivered a message grounded in unity and collective responsibility.

He spoke about the importance of the system coming together to actively counter division, calling for “a wave of positivity, a wave of kindness, a wave of respect” in response to the challenges facing society and education.

His message emphasised that change requires leaders and colleagues across the system to work together in true allyship. He also reinforced the importance of action beyond the event itself, encouraging attendees to reflect on what they will do differently in their organisations in the months ahead.

 

Adrian Rollins

Principal of STAR King Solomon Academy, Adrian Rollins focused on culture, workforce and long term impact.

He highlighted the vital role schools play in shaping the future workforce, noting that education underpins every sector. His message made clear that inclusive cultures are not only the right thing to do, but are essential to ensure that talented staff can remain, develop and thrive within the profession.

His reflections reinforced the importance of creating environments where all educators and young people feel valued and supported, strengthening both schools and the wider system.

 

Jagdeep Pabla

Founder of the National Education Diversity Awards, Jagdeep Pabla shared a powerful example of how grassroots action can develop into national impact.

Reflecting on how her work began with a single idea and grew through collaboration across the sector, she emphasised the importance of recognising and celebrating the excellent work already taking place in schools.

Her call to action was clear. The sector must do more to shine a light on this work and share it widely. As she put it, “shine the light, share the story, shift the system.”

Jagdeep’s contribution highlighted the role of storytelling, visibility and recognition in driving meaningful and lasting change.

A lasting impact beyond the room

Feedback from attendees captured the spirit of the evening, an event that combined inspiration with practical challenge.

Participants described the experience as “inspirational and eye-opening”, highlighting the opportunity to have “incredible conversations” and to hear powerful lived experiences from across the profession. 

Many reflected on the clear call to action, with one attendee noting that the event provided “lots to think about, lots to do, lots to improve on.” Others spoke about taking forward specific ideas such as strengthening representation in their schools and exploring new approaches to equity and inclusion.

For many, the event also created a strong sense of belonging and connection. One participant reflected that feeling seen as an educator is vital, because when staff feel seen, the same will be true for the young people they serve.

 

Capturing the moment

A particularly special feature of REND Nottingham was the involvement of student photographers from The Bulwell Academy, part of Creative Education Trust. 

Their work captured the atmosphere of the evening while also demonstrating the importance of giving young people opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the wider education community.

You can see work from Isaac, Kyren, Nieve, Amelia, Kaison, Olivia, Lewis and Lucas below. 

 

Gratitude and partnerships

Events such as REND Nottingham are made possible through collaboration.

Creative Education Trust extends its thanks to partners Kindred and Supporting Education Group, whose support enabled the event to take place and ensured a high-quality experience for all involved.

 

 

REND Nottingham showcased the continued momentum of a growing movement built on connection, shared purpose and a commitment to action. As the network expands across the country, the message remains clear. Real change in education happens when reflection leads to action and when a collective commitment to equity becomes part of everyday practice in schools and trusts.