IELA

Welcome to IELA, The Inclusion and Equity Leadership Association. We champion equity, diversity and inclusion and highlight the benefits of inclusive organisations.

We offer advice and guidance, the latest information and news and support with policies and compliance. IELA supports excellence in equity and inclusion work and actively advocates for change through training, resources, networking, consultancy work and much more.

Childline delivers thousands of counselling sessions to young people about sexuality and gender…

Childline—a free, confidential NSPCC service—provided over 2,400 counselling sessions in the last year on sexuality and gender identity. The majority involved trans and non-binary young people, reflecting significant demand for support on issues like coming out, identity questions, bullying, and discrimination. Resources for both young people and adults, coupled with active engagement during Pride Month, aim to foster understanding, inclusion, and acceptance. Source: NSPCC Read the full article

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Number of people with ADHD ‘probably isn’t increasing that much’ – study reports

A recent study indicates that the actual prevalence of ADHD in England hasn’t significantly increased, despite a notable rise in individuals seeking assessments. This surge is attributed to heightened public awareness, reduced stigma, and potential pandemic-related disruptions. Researchers also highlight the ambiguous relationship between social media usage and ADHD symptoms, noting it’s unclear whether online activity exacerbates symptoms or if individuals with ADHD are more inclined towards such platforms. While...

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IELA Podcast: Episode 4 Meaningful ways to diversify and decolonise your curriculum

Welcome to the very first mini podcast series by the Inclusion, Equity and Leadership Association, also known as (IELA). This series is called The IELA Exchange: Conversations about Inclusion. In episode 4 we explore meaningful ways to diversify and decolonise your curriculum. Host: Gaelle Sullivan, Director of Research, Inclusion and IELA Guest speaker: Dr Robert Power  

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IELA blog: Roma and Traveller History Month: The importance of language

June marks Roma and Traveller History Month. It was first officially recognised in the UK in 2008, building on grassroots campaigns and advocacy by Roma and Traveller community organisations and allies. It aligns with similar awareness efforts in Europe and globally to highlight the systemic challenges and human rights issues Roma and Traveller people face while also celebrating their longstanding contributions to British society.  Roma and Traveller History Month aims...

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Redefining leadership: From competence to inclusion

The article “Redefining Leadership: From Competence to Inclusion” by Professor Binna Kandola, in Personnel Today, argues that traditional leadership models often reinforce outdated ideals, inadvertently embedding bias and undermining inclusion efforts.  Kandola critiques conventional leadership competency frameworks, noting that they frequently emphasize traits like decisiveness and execution—qualities traditionally associated with male stereotypes. This narrow focus can marginalize diverse leadership styles and overlook the value of inclusive behaviours. The article highlights...

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Infant school to offer part-time ‘flexi schooling’

St Michael’s in Mickleham near Dorking is to experiment with a ‘flexi-schooling’ approach which could see pupils attending school on a part-time basis with the addition of home schooling. Headteacher, Nicola Cleather, said the option will put individual needs of the children first and take into account different learning styles. Source: BBC News Read the full article here.

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DfE to investigate why SEND numbers have ballooned

The Department for Education (DfE) has announced plans to investigate the significant rise in the number of children requiring special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) support in England. This initiative responds to the Public Accounts Committee’s (PAC) concerns about the DfE’s limited data and lack of a comprehensive, costed reform plan. The DfE aims to develop a detailed reform strategy by the end of 2025, focusing on improving data collection...

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How to build a culture that empowers neurodivergent leaders

The article from Personnel Today, titled “How to Build a Culture That Empowers Neurodivergent Leaders,” emphasizes the importance of supporting neurodivergent individuals in leadership roles. While much attention has been given to accommodating neurodivergent employees, the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent leaders often go unaddressed. Key Points: Underdiagnosis and Support Gaps: With increasing wait times for ADHD assessments and some NHS trusts closing their waiting lists, many neurodivergent individuals remain...

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Every school could appoint a teacher to tackle violence against girls

The article from The Telegraph titled “Schools appoint teacher to tackle violence against girls and misogyny” discusses a new initiative in UK schools to combat rising concerns about misogyny and violence against women and girls. While the full article is behind a paywall, related reports provide insight into the broader context and measures being implemented. A recent study by the Youth Endowment Fund (YEF), supported by the Home Office, recommends...

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Government will not be hurried on school guidance after gender ruling – minister

​Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has announced that the UK government will delay issuing new guidance for schools on supporting gender-questioning students, following a recent Supreme Court ruling that defines “woman” based on biological sex. Phillipson emphasized the need to carefully consider the implications of the ruling and the findings of the Cass Review before finalizing the guidance. She criticized Conservative shadow education secretary Laura Trott for pressuring the government to...

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Membership

IELA represents all educational settings, including independent and state schools, colleges and universities, charities, organisations, corporate companies and businesses in the UK and world-wide.

Find out more about Membership here.